Collection of manuscripts about Mormons, 1832-1954

 

Descriptive Inventory for the Collections at the Chicago History Museum, Research Center

By Archie Motley, 1962 (with later revisions)

 

 

Please address questions to:

Chicago History Museum, Research Center

1601 North Clark Street

Chicago, IL 60614-6038

Web-site: http://www.chicagohistory.org/Research

 

 

© Copyright 2010, Chicago Historical Society, Clark St. at North Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Introduction:

This online finding aid contains a listing as of August 1962 of items about Mormons (manuscripts, broadsides, rare books and pamphlets, newspapers, and periodicals) that are available at the Chicago History Museum, Research Center. These items were accumulated over a long period of time and include Mormon, non-Mormon, and anti-Mormon materials.

 

Provenance statement: Some materials in the collection were gifts of Henry Asbury (M1885.6824); Otto L. Schmidt (M1907.27503); and others (M1972.0014). Many items were acquired through the purchase by the Chicago Historical Society in the 1920s of most of the Charles Gunther estate (1923.1000). Gunther had collected massive amounts of Americana, including Deming's anti-Mormon materials as well as some other items in the present collection.

 

Restriction: This collection is open for research. However, advance appointment with special permission is required to view a portion of the collection. Photocopies or microfilm are available for research use for many of the restricted original items.

 

Please cite this collection as: Collection of manuscripts about Mormons (Chicago History Museum) plus a detailed description, date, and box/folder number of a specific item.

 

Table of contents for this finding aid:

                        Note: Section A. does not include all of the manuscripts about Mormon at the Chicago History Museum. Most other items are described in Sections B. and C. below.

*******************

Section A. Description of "Collection of manuscripts about Mormons, 1832-1954."

 

Title: Collection of manuscripts about Mormons, 1832-1954

Inclusive dates: 1832-1954, bulk 1840s.

Size: about 175 items, including 3 volumes.

 

Table of contents for Section A:

Summary description of the "Collection of manuscript about Mormons,"

List of online catalog headings about the collection in Section A,

Arrangement of the collection in Section A,

Detailed description the collection in Section A,

Alphabetical list of authors & recipients of letters in the collection in Section A,

Chronological list of items in the collection in Section A.

 

Summary description of the "Collection of manuscript about Mormons":

Correspondence, certificates, statements and reminiscences, muster rolls, ledger listing Kirtland (Ohio) bank stockholders, docket book of civil and criminal cases tried in the Nauvoo Court House (Ill.), newspaper clippings, and other items primarily relating to early Mormons, especially Mormons and anti-Mormons in Hancock County, Illinois, 1844-1846. Includes Arthur B. Deming's collection, ca. 1880s, of anti-Mormon reminiscences; Elihu B. Washburne's statement (1886) on the Icarian Community that preceded the Mormons at Nauvoo and on the Mormons' impact on the political situation in Illinois in 1840s; miscellaneous early Mormon items from Ohio and from Utah; and later correspondence with the Chicago Historical Society and others about historical source materials.

 

Correspondents include Joseph Smith, Joseph Smith III, Thomas S. Brockman, Thomas Gregg, Andrew Johnston, John Taylor, Brigham Young, and Levi Williams. Additional topics include Illinois militia operations in Hancock County, the trial and murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, leadership of the Mormon community, and the Kinderhook Plates found in 1843.

 

This collection includes 7 items written or signed by Joseph Smith: personal letters to his wife Emma (1832 June 6; 1840 Jan. 20); Joseph Smith's certification of ordination of Sylvester Stoddard (1836 Oct. 13); Joseph Smith's patriarchal blessing of Robert D. Foster (1840 July 20); letter concerning the expenses of his arrest and trial (1841 Sept. 30); summons issued by Joseph Smith (1842 Dec. 2); and document granting his power of attorney to Franklin J. Bartlett (1843 March 25).

 

The Kirtland (Ohio) ledger (1836-1837; 1 volume) lists stockholders of the Mormon bank and includes an index (1 volume).

 

The docket book from the Nauvoo Court (1841-1845, 268 p.) includes entries by justices of the peace Aaron Johnson and Ebenezer Robinson. Among the litigants listed are Jacob B. Backenstos, Francis M. Higbee, Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith, and Brigham Young.

 

Collection includes a typescript copy (15 p.) of a diary of Twiss Bermingham describing the journey that he and his family made from Dublin, Ireland, to join the Mormons in Salt Lake City in 1856. Original of this item is in the New York Public Library.

 

A microfilm copy is available for most of the collection at Chicago History Museum, Research Center. Several Mormon libraries also own copies of this microfilm. This microfilm includes items from this collection and from other collections at Chicago History Museum. It doesn't include the 1842 Dec. 2nd summons issued by Joseph Smith, which was acquired in 1972.

 

Related materials at Chicago History Museum, Research Center, include the Hardin family papers and the Mason Brayman papers; and newspapers, periodicals, books, pamphlets, and broadsides relating to Mormons, cataloged separately.

 

List of online catalog headings about the collection in Section A:

The following headings were placed in the online catalog:

Subjects:

Smith, Joseph, 1805-1844.

Smith, Hyrum, 1800-1844.

Bennet, James Arlington, 1788-1863. [Emma Smith Bidamon's letter, 1870 Jan. 21]

Bermingham, Twiss. [diary 1856]

Gregg, Thomas, 1808-1892

Rigdon, Sidney, 1793-1876. [Kirtland ledger 1836; R. Patterson letter, Nov. 26, 1881]

Spaulding, Solomon, 1761-1816. [Joseph Smith III letter Sept. 18, 1886]

Strang, James Jesse, 1813-1856. [Nathaniel Grant May 19, 1846; Walter C. Wyman, undated]

Washburne, Elihu Benjamin, 1816-1887. [statement Feb. 18, 1886]

Wyman, Walter C. [undated statement]

Young, Brigham, 1801-1877.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Icarian Community. [E.B. Washburne's statement 1886]

Illinois. Infantry Regiment, 59th.

Nauvoo (Ill.). Court. [docket book 1841-1845]

Actions and defenses--Illinois--19th century.

Banks--Ohio--Kirtland--19th century. [bank stock ledger 1836-1837]

Mormon Church--19th century.

Mormon Church--Controversial literature.

Mormon Church--History--19th century.

Mormons--Illinois--Nauvoo.

Mormons--Ohio--Kirtland.

Mormons--Utah

Newspaper publishing--Illinois--19th century.

Hancock County (Ill.)--Politics and government--19th century.

Illinois--History, 1818-1861.

Illinois--Politics and government--To 1865.

Kinderhook (Ill.)--Antiquities. [1843]

West (U.S.)--Description and travel--19th century. [Twiss Bermingham 1856]

 

Form/genre:

Certificates. [1836 Ordination]

Correspondence.

Diaries. [1856 Bermingham]

Ledgers.

Dockets.

Muster rolls. 1844.

 

Added entries:

Smith, Joseph, 1805-1844.

Smith, Hyrum, 1800-1844.

Bermingham, Twiss. [diary 1856]

Brockman, Thomas S.

Deming, Arthur B., former owner.

Deming, Miner R.

Gregg, Thomas,1808-1892.

Johnson, Aaron. [j.p. docket book]

Johnston, Andrew, Mormon.

Robinson, Ebenezer. [j.p. docket book]

Smith, Emma Hale.

Smith, Joseph, 1832-1914

Washburne, Elihu Benjamin, 1816-1887. [1886, 1888]

Williams, Levi, Colonel, Illinois Militia

Young, Brigham, 1801-1877

Wyman, Walter C. [undated statement]

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Illinois. Infantry Regiment, 59th. [1844]

Nauvoo (Ill.). Court. [1841-1845]

Chicago Historical Society, collector.

United States--Illinois--Hancock County--Nauvoo.

United States--Utah.

United States--Ohio--Kirtland.

 

Arrangement of the collection in Section A:

Most of the "Collection of manuscript about Mormons" is arranged by the date when the original was created.

 

These chronological files are arranged according to this pattern:

a)      items for which a year and month are known (but not a day) are filed at the end of that year and month;

b)      items for which only a year is known (but not a month or day) are filed at the end of that year (after December 31);

c)      for items enclosed in another item (such as a letter with enclosed documents that were written at different times), the enclosures--regardless of their dates--are grouped with the main item to which they were attached originally, and that group of items is filed according to the date of the main letter with the enclosures following the main letter.

d)      an item (such as an account book) created over a range of dates is filed under the first date of creation/signature within the item--which may not be the first page of the item;

e)      items with no date are filed at the end of the collection.

 

In addition:

Folder 1a contains information about the Kinderhook Plates.

Folder 1b contains information about acquisition of manuscript items related to Mormons.

Folder 5 contains comments on the history of the Mormon Church, 1878-1898.

Folder 6 contains anti-Mormon materials, 1884-1897.

 

Detailed description the collection in Section A:

The earliest Mormon material (1832-1840) consists of: personal letters (June 6, 1832; Jan. 20, 1840) of Joseph Smith to his wife, Emma; Joseph Smith's Certification of the Ordination of Sylvester Stoddard, Oct. 13, 1836; a stock ledger (1 vol.) and index to the ledger (1 vol.) of the Mormon Bank at Kirtland, Ohio, 1836-1837, which includes entries for Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Sidney Rigdon, Brigham Young and other Mormon leaders; Joseph Smith Sr.'s Patriarchal Blessing of Robert D. Foster, July 20, 1840; and Orson Pratt's letter of Oct. 20, 1840, from Edinburgh, Scotland concerning the prosperity of the American Mormon Church and its possibilities abroad.

 

The Illinois material (1841-1849, ca. 90 items) is primarily concerned with the "Mormon War" in Hancock County, 1844-1846, the removal of Mormons from the state, and the murder of Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum. Letters, general orders, and muster rolls pertain to the operation of the Illinois Militia during the Hancock County hostilities. Requests for payment for military service during the period also are present. The principals involved are: Governor Thomas Ford, Thomas S. Brockman, Benjamin Clifford, Levi Williams, and Miner R. Deming.

 

Also from this time period is a docket book of civil and criminal cases tried in the Nauvoo (Ill.) Court House (1841-1845; 258 p. in 1 v.) that includes docket entries by justices of the peace Aaron Johnson and Ebenezer Robinson. Among the litigants over the years are Jacob B. Backenstos, Francis M. Higbee, Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith, and Brigham Young.

 

There also are ca. 40 letters, committee reports, etc. pertinent to the removal of the Mormons from Illinois. Most of them involve the negotiations between the Quincy Committee (Andrew Johnston, Chairman) and the Mormon Council (Brigham Young, President). Of especial interest as regards the removal are Brigham Young's advice-seeking letter to James Fenner, April 25, 1845, regarding asylum for the Mormons in Rhode Island; Young's letter to Thomas Gregg, Sept. 23, 1845, citing terms for the Mormon exodus from Hancock County; Thomas S. Brockman's letter of Sept. 13, 1846, requesting additional troops for the completion of the conquest of Nauvoo, and his terms for the city‘s surrender, Sept. 15, 1946; and the signed Treaty of Withdrawal, Sept. 16, 1846.

 

The later material on the life and death of Joseph Smith includes: his letter of Sept. 30, 1841, concerning the expenses of his arrest and trial; a petition for his removal from confinement, Aug. 8, 1842; summons issued by Joseph Smith, 1842 Dec. 2; the granting of his power of attorney to Franklin J. Bartlett, March 25, 1843; F.M. Higbee's letter May 1844 giving his plans for the Nauvoo Expositor and the exposure of Smith's "harem"; Samuel O. Williams' letter of July 10, 1844, concerning the destruction of the Expositor press and the capture and murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith; James Gregg's letter of June 20, 1844, concerning the murder of the Smith brothers; and manuscript testimony (55 p.) of witnesses at the trial of those indicted for the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith, May 19-28, 1845. [This testimony, with some changes, was published as Trial of the Persons Indicted in the Hancock Circuit Court … Warsaw, Ill.: Warsaw Signal, printer, 1845. (CHM call#: BX8611 T73].

 

Among the Illinois miscellanies are: James J. Strang's letter to Emma Smith, Feb. 22, 1846, relative to his possible return to Nauvoo and his position in the Church; Emma Smith's letter of April 21, 1846, disclaiming possession of any historical items, those of her husband having been carried off; Nathaniel Grant's letter of May 19, 1846, commenting on the Nauvoo situation and Mormon opposition to Strang's followers; Elihu B. Washburne's statement of Feb. 18, 1886, concerning the Mormon situation in Illinois in the 1840s, its implications in the 1842 election, and the Icarian settlement at Nauvoo; several statements during the late 1840s alleging Mormon treachery and immorality.

 

Items in folder 1a about the Kinderhook Plates include: photographs of both sides of the plate at the Chicago History Museum and typed copies of statements by F.C.A. Richardson (July 15, 1889), M. Wilford Poulson (July 30, 1929), and James D. Bales (Dec. 24, 1954) about the plates.  The Kinderhook Plates are 6 brass tablets that were dug up by men in 1843 near the town of Kinderhook in Pike County, Illinois. One of them is in the collection of the Chicago History Museum, not in the Research Center. All 6 plates are shown in a broadside (broadside #2a listed in Section D below). Three of the plates also are shown in facsimile in William A. Linn's The Story of the Mormons (New York, 1902) p. 86. The second one pictured by Linn's book is very much like the one in the collection of the Chicago History Museum. Opinions on the authenticity of the Kinderhook Plates and their relationship to the Mormons have changed over the decades.

 

The Utah material (ca. 10 items, 1852-1886) deals with Mormon doctrine, conferences, and ministry. There are several items relevant to Utah history. Among the correspondents are: Brigham Young, Joseph Smith III, George A. Smith, John Taylor, and Daniel H. Wells.

 

The material concerning books and articles about Mormons (38 items, 1878-1892, in folder 5) consists of correspondence, statements, and a newspaper clipping. Joseph Smith III and Thomas Gregg are the chief correspondents, with most of the letters directed to Albert D. Hager of the Chicago Historical Society. Letters of Kate Field, Gov. S.S. Harding, and Cornelia Paddock are also present.

 

The anti-Mormon materials (25 items, 1884-1897, in folder 6) include manuscript, typescript, and printed statements alleging Mormon immorality and criminality. They were collected by Arthur B. Deming, son of Miner B. Deming (and some were published in Oakland, California in 1888). Other items gathered by Arthur B. Deming may be found elsewhere in the collection.

 

Other items of interest include:

a. An edited typescript copy (15 p.) of Twiss Bermingham's diary, April 12-Sept. 21, 1856, commencing in Dublin, Ireland, and ending about 200 miles from Salt Lake City, Utah. The diary furnishes partial accounts of a Mormon ship's voyage from Dublin, Ireland, to America, and of a Mormon trek from Iowa City, Iowa, to a place about 200 miles from Salt Lake City. [The original diary is in the New York Public Library.]

 

b. Letter of Emma Smith Bidamon to Joseph Smith III, Jan. 21, 1870, describing General James Arlington Bennet as the "old arch hypocrite," and expressing displeasure with religious "masks."

 

c. R. Patterson letter 1881 Nov. 26, including a manuscript copy of an 1876 newspaper article relevant to Sidney Rigdon's Meadville (Pa.) speech in 1836 about Joseph Smith's Revelation.

 

d. Joseph Smith III's letter 1886 Sept. 18, concerning the relation of the Book of Mormon to Solomon Spaulding's The Manuscript Found.

 

e. Walter C. Wyman's statement, undated, relative to "King" Strang and his followers, 1850-1856.

 

Alphabetical list of authors & recipients of letters in the collection in Section A:

            Please note: This list generally omits items that are not letters.

            Dates of letters by the person appear in lower case; letter to the person appear in upper case.

 

Alvord, D. S.                                      1890 Oct 5 (folder 5)

Arnold, Isaac Newton, 1815-84         1883 Aug 17 (folder 5)

Asbury, Henry, 1810-96                     1846 MAY 19; 1847 JAN 17; FEB 13

Bidamon, Emma (Hale) Smith            1832 JUN 6; 1840 JAN 20; 1846 FEB 22, Apr 21;1879 Jan 21

Blair, W. W.                                        1878 Dec 9

Blanchard, Rufus, 1821-1904             1890 SEP 16 (folder 5)

Bliss, Neziah W.                                 1884 Jul 16 (folder 5)

Brattle, James W.                                1848 APR 30

Briggs, L. W.                                      1879 Mar 30

Brockman, Thomas S.                         1846 Sep 13, SEP 14, Sep 15, Sep 15 SEP 15, SEP 15,

                                                            Sep 16, Sep 16, SEP 16, SEP 16; 1847 Jan 17, Feb 13.

Burton, R. T.                                       1866 JUN 17

Cameron, James                                  1848 Apr 30

Campbell, H. J.                                   1846 Sep 14

Cannon, George Quayle, 1827-1901  1876 Jun 30

Carlin, John                                         1846 Sep 13

Clifford, Benjamin                              1846 SEP 13, Sep 15, Sep 15, Sep 15 SEP 15, SEP 15,

                                                            Sep 16, Sep 16, SEP 16

Coe, Albert                                         1845? Jul

Colt?, James T.                                    1881 NOV 26

Conover, Lawrence                             1880 Oct 28 (folder 5)

Couchman?, M.                                   1848 Apr 30

Cutler, Harry Gardner, 1856-1928     1886 SEP 18

Deming, Arthur B.                              1886 Apr 8 (folder 6)

Deming, Miner R.                               1844 Jun 25, Jun 27, Sep 24

Dills, W.                                              1847 FEB 13

Drummond, W. W.                             1856 Apr 30

Fenner, James, 1771-1846                  1845 APR 25

Field, Kate, 1838-1896                       1884 Jul 25 (folder 5)

Ford, Thomas, 1804-1850                   1884 Jan 29, Jun 27, Sep 30

Foster, Robert D.                                1840 OCT 20

Geddes, Thomas                                 1846 Aug 24

Grant Nathaniel                                  1746 Nat 19

Gregg, James                                       1844 Jun 28

Gregg, Thomas, 1808-1887                1844 MAY, JUN 28; 1845 SEP 23; 1846 APR 21;

                                                            1851 SEP 22; In folder 5: 1878 AUG 10; 1882 JAN 6,

                                                            MAR 3, MAR 13, JUN 4, NOV 20; 1885 MAR 13; 1886

                                                            Jan 9, Jan 30, Feb 2; 1890 OCT 8

Griffith, Thomas B.                            1890 Sep 16 (folder 5)

Hager, Albert David, 1817-1888        In folder 5: 1879 JUL 16, JUL 18; 1880 OCT 22; 1884

                                                            JUL 16; 1885 FEB 16, FEB 25, MAR 2, MAR 11, MAR 19,

                                                            JUN 12; 1886 JAN 9, JAN 11, MAR 19, JUN 12; 1886 JAN

                                                            9, JAN 11, JAN 30, FEB 4, FEB 12, JUN 17, SEP 9, SEP 13,

                                                            OCT 15, OCT 21, OCT 27, 1886; 1887 APR 11, MAY 2.

                                                            In folder 6: 1886 APR 8.

Harding, S. S.                                     1882 Jan 6, Mar13, Nov 20 (items in folder 5).

Hatchett, Joseph                                 1847 Jan 27

Hawley, B? K.                                    1845? Jul

Head, William T.                                 1844 SEP 24

Higbee, Francis M.                              1844 May

Holeman, W? H?                                1852?

Hazlett, Thomas J.                              1847 MAR 29

Johnston, Andrew                               1846, Sep 15, SEP 15, SEP 15, SEP 15, Sep 15, SEP 15, SEP

                                                            15, SEP 15, SEP 15, Sep16, Sep 16, SEP 16, SEP 16, SEP 16,

                                                            SEP 16, Sep 18; 1847 JAN 17.

King, Thomas                                      1841 SEP 30; 1842 AUG 8

Kinney, John F.                                   1864 FEB 11, MAR 2, NOV 28

Knox, Samuel                                     1847 Jan 27

Lynch, William                                   1864 Feb 11

McConnel, Murray , -1869                 1844 Sep 24

Morrison, John                                    1847 JAN 27

Mulholland, J. H.                                1849 Sep 9

Paddock, Cornelia                              1882 Mar 3; 1885 Mar 13 (folder 5)

Patterson, R.                                       1881 Nov 26; 1886 Sep 13, Oct 15 (last two items in folder 5)

Pratt, Orson, 1811-1881                     1840 Oct 20

Prickett, John A.                                 1844 JUL 10; 1884 May 19 (last item in folder 5)

Risley, Hamilton                                 1845 SEP 2

Sharp, Thomas C.                                1849 SEP 9

Smith, Emma Hale SEE: Bidamon, Emma Hale Smith

Smith, George Albert, 1817-1875      1864 Nov 28; 1869 Apr 21

Smith, Joseph, 1805-1844                   1832 Jun 6; 1840 Jan 20; 1841 Sep 30; 1843 Mar. 25; other

                                                            documents: 1836 Oct 13; 1840 July 20; 1842 Dec 2; not

                                                            signed by Smith: 1843 Mar. 10 & Mar. 23.

Smith, Joseph, 1832-1914.                  1870 JAN 21; 1878 DEC 9, 1879 MAR 30; in folder 5: 1879

                                                            Jul 16; 1880 Oct 22; 1885 Feb 12, Jun 12; 1886 Jan 11, Feb

                                                            12; 1887Apr 11, May 2. Also, Sep 18, 1886 (not in folder 5)

Smith, Lisle                                         1845 Sep 2

Smith, Robert L.                                 1846 Aug. 24

Snyder, John J.                                    1886 Oct 21, Oct 27 (folder 5)

Sperry, Pierpont                                  1845 Oct 27

Stark, James                                        1847 JAN 27

Stebbins, Henry A                              1879 Jul 18 (folder 5)

Stephens, Henry                                  1846 AUG 24, SEP 13; 1847 MAY 1.

Stout, John M.                                    1869 APR. 21

Strang, James Jesse, 1813-1856          1846 Feb 22

Taylor, Hawkins                                  1846 Sep 14

Taylor, John, 1808-1887                     1864 Mar 2; 1878 Aug 10. (last item in folder 5)

Turner, Orsemus?                                1851 Sep 22

Washburne, Elihu B., 1816-1887        1884 MAY 19 (folder 5)

Wells, Daniel H.                                  1886 Jul 17

Williams, Levi                                     1844 JUN 25, JUN 27; 1846 Aug. 24; 1847 Jan 27

Williams, Samuel Otho                       1844 Jul 10

Windom, William, 1827-1891            1882 Jun 4 (folder 5)

Woodruff, W.                                     1886 Jun 17 (folder 5)

Worthington, G.                                  1847 Mar 29

Young, Brigham, 1801-1877              1845 Apr 25, Sep 23; 1868 Sep?; undated

 

Chronological list of items in the collection in Section A:

Abbreviations used in this list:

            ALS = autograph letter signed (letter in the handwriting and signature of its author)

            ADS = autograph document signed (document in the handwriting and signature of its author)

            AD = handwritten document, not signed by its author (but may be signed by someone else)

            DS = document signed by its authorizing person, but the body of the document probably is not in his/her handwriting

            AN = autograph note (handwritten note, not signed by its author)

            Ms = manuscript item

            Mss = manuscripts

            p. = page, pages

            TDS = typed document signed (typed document signed by its author)

 

1832 June 6

Joseph Smith to Emma Smith. ALS 3 p. Greenville, Indiana. Personal matters.

 

1836 Oct. 13

Certificate of the Ordination of Sylvester B. Stoddard, signed by Joseph Smith. DS 1 p. Kirtland, Ohio.

 

1836-37

Stock ledger and Index to the ledger of the Mormon Bank at Kirtland, Ohio. 2 items. Contains entries for Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Brigham Young, Sidney Higdon, and other Mormon leaders.

 

1840 Jan. 20

Joseph Smith to Emma Smith. ALS 1 p. Chester County, Pa. Personal matters.

 

1840 July 20

Joseph Smith, Sr.'s Patriarchal Blessing upon Robert D. Foster. DS? 2 p. (Nauvoo, Ill.)

 

1840 Oct. 20

Orson Pratt to Robert D. Foster. ALS 4 p. Edinburgh, Scotland. Concerning the prosperity of the American Mormon Church and its possibilities abroad.

 

1841 Sept. 30

Joseph Smith for John S. Fullmer to Thomas King, ALS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Relative to the expenses of Smith's arrest and trial.

 

1841-1845

Docket book of civil and criminal cases tried in the Nauvoo (Ill.) Court House.

Ms 1 vol. (258 p.). Includes docket entries by Justices of the Peace Aaron Johnson and Ebenezer Robinson. Among the litigants are; Jacob B. Backenstos, Francis M. Higbee, Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith, and Brigham Young.

 

1842 Aug. 8

Judges of the Nauvoo Municipal Court to Thomas C. King. DS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Ordering the release of Joseph Smith.

 

1842 Dec. 2

Joseph Smith document. DS 2pp including endorsements. Nauvoo, Illinois. Summons commanding Charles Allen, Carlos Granger, Gilbert Thompson, Elijah Session, and Michael Barns to appear before Joseph Smith, a Justice of the Peace, to give testimony concerning a complaint made by the City of Nauvoo against Amos Davis. Issued and signed by Joseph Smith.

[Acquired by CHM in March 1972; Accession 1972.0014]

 

1843 Mar. 10, Mar. 23

Indenture involving the sale of Lot #4 in Block #1 in Nauvoo, Ill. By Joseph Smith to Sarah Foster. DS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Verso contains Joseph Smith's certification of the deed (signed for him by William Clayton), Mar 23, 1843.

 

1843 Mar. 15

Receipt of $16 from Cirus? Ellsworth? To be paid towards the building of the Nauvoo Temple. Signed by Zekiel G_____ and Isaac Davies?. ADS 1 p. Haldimand, (Illinois)?.

 

1843 Mar. 25

Joseph Smith's appointment of Franklin J. Bartlett as his Attorney. ADS? 1 p. Hancock County, Ill.

 

1844 Jan. 29

Thomas Ford to ? ALS 4 p. Springfield, Ill. States his opinions on the Mormon situation in Hancock County; wishes that the recipient promulgate these views.

 

1844 May

F. M. Higbee to Thomas Gregg. ALS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. His plans for the Nauvoo Expositor and the exposition of Smith's harem.

 

1844 June 25

Miner R. Deming to Col. Levi Williams. DS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Ordering him to be at Goldens Point on the 27th in preparation for a tentative march into Nauvoo.

 

1844 June 27

Thomas Ford to Col. Levi Williams. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Ordering the discharge of the troops at Warsaw and vicinity.

 

1844 June 27

Miner R. Deming to Col. Levi Williams. ALS 1 p. Headquarters. Ordering him to assemble his forces at Warsaw to protect the county, and to preserve military discipline in his command.

 

1844 June 28

James Gregg to Thomas Gregg. ALS 2 p. Warsaw, Illinois. Account of the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.

 

1844 July 10

Samuel O. Williams to John A. Prickett. ALS 7 p. Carthage, Ill. Account of the destruction of the Expositor Press, and the capture and murder of the Smith brothers. (See also: letter of Prickett to E. B. Washburne, May 19, 1884, in folder 5)

 

1844 Sept. 24

Miner R. Deming and M. McConnel to William T. Head. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Requests 100 men, if available, to handle the Carthage mob.

 

1844 Sept. 30

Statement of Thomas Ford. ADS 1 p. Camp Edwards, Ill. Lists terms under which Levi Williams, Thomas C. Sharp, and Joseph H. Jackson are willing to surrender; they are to be guarded by the troops under John J. Hardin's command.

 

1844 Oct. 2

Attorneys' Agreement, signed by A. P. Bledsoe, Thompson Campbell, Orville H. Browning, and Edward D. Baker. DS 1 p. Quincy, Ill. Concerning an inquiry into the conduct of Levi Williams and Thomas C. Sharp.

 

1844?

Constitution of the Warsaw Cadets. AD 3 p. (Warsaw, Ill.) Includes signatures of 26 Cadets.

 

(1844)

Report of Meeting of the Citizens of Hancock County on the 21st, relative to Mormon and Indian attempts to influence or thwart justice at the October Term of the Circuit Court. AD 2 p. (Carthage, Ill.)

 

1845 Apr. 25

Brigham Young to James Fenner. LS? 3 p. Nauvoo, Ill. (May have been written and signed by Willard Richards, Clerk.) Discusses plight of the Mormons in Illinois; asks Fenner for advice as to what to do; seeks asylum in Rhode Island.

 

1845 (May 19-28)

Testimony of witnesses at the trial, May 19-28, 1845, of those indicted for the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. Ms 55p. (Published, with some changes, as Trial of the Persons Indicted in the Hancock Circuit Court … Warsaw, Illinois, Warsaw Signal, 1845. (CHM library #BX8611 T73)

 

1845 (Spring)

List of constables, specifying whether they are Mormon, Anti-Mormon, Democrat, or Jack-Mormon. AD 2 p.

 

1845 Sept. 2

Lisle Smith to Hamilton Risley. ALS 3 p. Philadelphia, Pa. Personal matters; earnings on Smith's Chicago property holdings.

 

1845 Sept. 17

Newspaper clippings from the Warsaw Signal. 2 p. Concerning the Mormon War.

 

1845 Sept. 23

Brigham Young to Thomas Gregg. Ms 3 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Gives terms for Mormon departure from Hancock County. (Apparently written and signed by Willard Richards, Clerk.)

 

1845 Oct. 27

Pierpont Sperry to Anson Sperry. ALS 3 p. Fort Madison, (Iowa)? Account of Mormon incidents in Hancock County, including indictment of Brigham Young for counterfeiting.

 

1845? July

B? K. Hawley to Albert Coe. ALS 1 p. Chicago, Ill. Account of author's travels; mentions seeing Miner Deming, the jail where the Smiths were hanged, and the hanging of the two Hodges.

 

(1845?)

Agreement to contribute money to the Hancock County Treasury in event of its depletion due to an order of the County Commissioner's Court. Miner R. Deming, C. Robison, and Jacob B. Backenstos pledge $100 each, and A. W. Blakesley and G. W. Stigall? $50 each. AD 1 p. (Hancock County, Ill.)

 

(1845?)

"Backenstos bond from which Joel Catlin appealed." AD 1 p. undated. Contains Backenstos' name and 7 others, and pencil note concerning "worthless Mormon securities." (May refer to item immediately above.)

 

(1845?)

"Muster Roll of the … 59th Regiment 4th Brigade and 5th Division of Illinois Militia under the command of Levi Williams … (who) were mustered into service … and performed Military duty from the 17th to the 27th day of June A.D. 1844 …" 11 items, 42 p. Lists military pay and rations allowances.

 

1846 Feb. 22

James J. Strang to Emma Smith. ALS 2 p. Voree, Wis. Comments on the current state of the Mormon Church; regrets the "abominable things now taught and done in Nauvoo; may come to Nauvoo if God spares the city; would appreciate her assistance should he come to the city.

 

1846 Apr. 21

Emma Smith to Thomas Gregg. ALS 2 p. Nauvoo, Ill. States that she does not have any historical papers or items in her possession; those of her husband were carried off; refuses to comment on the Nauvoo situation.

 

1846 (May 18)

A list of cases on the Docket of the Hancock County, Ill. Circuit Court involving Mormons and Jack-Mormons. AD 1 p. (Hancock County, Ill.)

 

1846 May 19

Nathaniel Grant to Henry Asbury. ALS 3 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Comments on the Nauvoo situation, Mormon evacuation of the city, and Mormon opposition to Strang's followers.

 

1846 June 20

Affidavit of Thomas Moffitt. DS 1 p. n.p. Denies previous affidavit to the effect that his life had been threatened or that he was compelled to join an anti-Mormon mob.

 

1846 Aug. 24

Robert L. Smith, Levi Williams, and Thomas Geddes to Henry Stephens. LS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Asks him to call out his brigade as soon as possible.

 

1846 Sept. 13

Thomas S. Brockman to Henry Stephens. ALS 1 p. Anti-Mormon Camp, Nauvoo, Ill. Report of his attack on Nauvoo; asks aid in completing the conquest of the city. Item contains John Carlin's endorsement, reasserting the request for additional troops.

 

1846 Sept. 13-Sept. 19

Correspondence, committee reports, etc. relative to the Mormon evacuation of Nauvoo, Ill. ca. 35 items, including some contemporary copies. The principals involved are; Andrew Johnston, Chairman of the Quincy Committee; Thomas S. Brockman; and Benjamin Clifford. Of special interest are Brockman's Ultimatum of the 15th and the signed Treaty of the 16th. (See also: letter of N. W. Bliss, July 16, 1884, in folder 5.).

 

(1846)?

Signature of the "North Ward" Militia volunteers. DS 1 p. n.p.

 

1847 Jan. 17

Thomas Brockman to Andrew Johnston and Henry Asbury. ALS 3 p. Mt. Sterling, Ill. Explains his actions in the Mormon War; comments on current conditions in Nauvoo, and the treachery of alleged anti-Mormons.

 

1847 Jan. 27

Joseph Hatchet, Levi Williams, and Samuel Knox to John Morrison and James Stark. ALS 1 p. Green Plains, Illinois. Requests payment for Hancock County men for their services in the Mormon War.

 

1847 Jan.

Petition of Hancock County, Ill. Citizens to the Illinois Senate and House of Representatives. (Hancock County, Ill.) requests payment for Mormon War services.

 

1847 Feb. 13

Thomas Brockman to W. Dills and Henry Asbury. ALS 1 p. Mt. Sterling, Ill. Plans to be with them on the 22nd; lists itinerary of his temperance lectures.

 

1847 Mar. 29

G. G. Worthington to Thomas J. Hazlett. ALS 3p. Nauvoo, Ill. Provides information on Nauvoo's: medical faculty, population, surrounding country; future prosperity, and "prospects for mechanics

 

1847 May 1

M Couchman? To Henry Stephens. ALS 1 p. n.p. encloses order relevant to the raising of volunteers for the Illinois Militia.

 

1848 Apr. 30

James Cameron to Mr. Brattle. ALS 4 p. n.p. Describes his difficulties with the Mormons in Hancock County, Ill. during the recent Mormon War.

 

1848 Sept. 9

J. H. .Mulholland to Thomas Sharp. ALS 4 p. n.p. Informs him of Mormon plot on Sharp's life, and other Mormon treachery; lists intended victims.

 

1851 Sept. 22

Oresmus? Turner to Thomas Gregg. ALS 2p. Rochester, N.Y. Asks assistance for his Mormon history.

 

(1852)? W? H? Holeman to ? fragment of letter, 1 p. n.p. Relates an incident involving Brigham Young's taking of a "spiritual wife."

 

1856 Apr.12-Sept. 21: Diary of Twiss Bermingham 15p. Carbon copy of typescript (Original diary in New York Public Library). Begins at Dublin, Ireland and ends about 200 miles from Salt Lake City, Utah. Provides a day by day description of the journey by Bermingham and his family, who left Dublin, Ireland, Apr. 12, 1856, to join the Mormons in Salt Lake City.

 

Excerpts and paraphrases from the diary:

1856, April 12

Left Dublin … all sick on passage to Liverpool … went to meeting in the morning … Brother Jones addressed the Saints in English and Welsh, members from both countries being present.

 

1856 April 17

Left the lodgings and went on board the ‘S. Curling" in Wellington Dock.

 

1856 Apr. 19

Ship towed out of dock and into the Mersey … ship running about two miles an hour … held an organization council on deck … resolutions adopted … ship divided into 11 wards … I was elected 1st clerk.  [Emigrants were sent in groups instead of being shipped indiscriminately with other passengers. Mormon agent at Liverpool would wait until assured of a load of Saints and then charter a ship for them. On board, passengers were under the leadership of two or three church dignitaries who maintained order and stimulated religious enthusiasm.]

 

1856 May 1

Engaged all day in getting passengers to sign the bonds required by the Perpetual Emigration Fund.  [The Perpetual Emigration was a permanent fund set up by the church to aid emigration to Zion. Those indebted were required to pay back their obligations as soon as possible, either in cash or more commonly in labor.]

 

1856 May 9

[Diary ends as far as the voyage is concerned. Presumably the group landed at Boston, went to New York by train, then by train to Iowa City, Iowa, which was the starting point for their trip across the plains. Iowa City was then the outfitting point for Mormon immigration across the plains. Diary gives detailed account re. wagons and supplies.]

 

1856 July7

Left Silver Creek at 8 and had a very fatiguing journey of 20 miles. After 10 miles two families gave out, being frightened at getting nothing for three days but Indian corn stirabout. They stopped at a farmhouse to work for 2 dollars a day and food

 

1856 July 8

Started for Cinskato Creek at 6 1/2 o'clock and traveled 20 miles. Camped at the Mormon Camp, Florence City … saw the place where a great number of the Saints were driven out in 18489… tabernacle a ruin. When it was in good order, it must have accommodated nearly 1,000 people.

 

1856 July 11

Went to Omaha to get a glass in my watch and went about two miles further to see Sister Branigan who was sewing at a farmer's house for $3.00 per week and her board … on my way I met with a camp of Indians, the Omahas. Went into their camp but they speak very little English. They were very friendly … men fine looking fellows …

 

1856 July 14

Went to Bluffs City – 10 miles to try and sell my watch that I might buy a cow, but did not succeed.

 

1856 July 15

The Sisters Lineas left the Camp for good and went to Bluffs City to service, being determined not to go any further with the hand carts. Brother Lucas took a lot of ground in the city to build a house and got a farm of 350 acres 10 miles out on the prairie. He got all for nothing, simply settling down on it. I was offered the same and a school with a yearly stipend if I would stop and take care oft it, but of course I knew better than that.

 

1856 July 25

Travelled 20 miles to Elkhorn River where we found a camp of Indians … many of the Indians got drunk in the night and commenced fighting among themselves … we were all called out of our beds and ordered to load our guns … after watching for some time all became quiet again …

 

1856 July 26

Crossed Elkhorn River by means of a very roughly constructed ferry. For the conveyance of us over, the company had to pay $6. Travelled 15 miles without any water until we came to the Platte River when water was a joyful sight to many, being six or seven days under a burning sun without a drop to cool our tongues.

 

1856 July 30

Started early this morning and traveled 12 miles to Loup Fork ferry, over which we had to ferry the carts, wagons, and women and children … left Loup Fork and traveled 20 miles without water … exhausted with my sores and the labor of pulling … not able to cook any for ourselves so we were obliged to do with a bit of bread and a pint of milk. This is the quantity of milk we have been allowed morning and evening since we left Florence. Rather little for five persons.

 

1856 Aug. 3

Started at 5 o'clock and had to pull the carts through 6 miles of heavy sand. Some places the wheels were up to the boxes and I was so weak from want of food and being exhausted with the pain of the boils that I was obliged to lie down several times. I was very much grieved today, so much so that I thought my heart would burst. To see my wife crawling along to keep up even with me and crying with pain and hunger … I was obliged to take my children out of the hand cart and urge them along the road before me.

 

1856 Aug. 25-26-27

Very heavy traveling through sand all the time at about 19 miles per day.

 

1856 Aug 28

Passed many camps of Indians – all peaceable.

 

1856 Sept. 21

From the 5th to the 21st nothing particular occurred save the meeting of some wagons of flour from the valley for which we will have to pay at the rate of $.18 per lb … traveled at about the rate of 25 miles a day …Met some other wagons and people coming to meet their friends in the company.

 

1856 Apr. 30

W. W. Drummond to Messrs. Warren and Edmunds. ALS 2 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Business and personal matters.

 

1864 Feb. 11

William Lynch to John f. Kinney. ALS 2 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Personal matters.

 

1864 Mar. 2

John Taylor to John F. Kinney. ALS 2 p. Salt lake City, Utah. Seeks aid in securing a passport for Orson Pratt.

 

1864 Nov. 28

George A. Smith to John F. Kinney. ALS 1 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. News of the city: there are a great many gamblers there, and commotion over the Great Salt Lake City and Utah Lake Canal Co.

 

1866 June 17

Daniel H. Wells to Maj. Gen. R. T. Burton. ALS 2 p. Indian farm, 12 mile creek (Utah)? Plans to go to Circleville in light of an impending Indian attack.

 

(1868 Sept.)?

Brigham Young to Brethren working on his railroad contract. ALS 1 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Asks them to continue working on the railroad, rather than to attend a Mormon conference.

 

1869 Apr. 21

George A. Smith to John M. Stout. ALS 2 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Avers that the readings of the Mormon Church are in accord with those of the Old and New Testaments. Includes newspaper clipping, which gives the basic tenets of the Mormon Faith.

 

1876 June 30

George Q. Cannon to ? ALS 1 p. Washington, D.C. Has obtained some Indian curiosities for him.

 

1878 Dec. 9

W. W. Blair to Joseph Smith. ALS 2 p. Sandwich, Ill. Concerning the ministry of the Mormon Church; unfavorable comments on G. J. Adams; prefers J.J. Cornish for the position; censures W. B. Smith.

 

1878-1892 Comments on histories of the Mormon Church [stored in folder 5]:

Correspondence, statements, and a newspaper clipping concerning various books and articles about Mormons, 38 items. The principal correspondents are Joseph Smith III and Thomas Gregg. Most of the letters are directed to Albert D. Hager of the Chicago Historical Society. Letters by Kate Field, Gov. S.S. Harding, and Cornelia Paddock are also present.

 

1879 Mar. 30

L. W. Briggs to Joseph Smith. ALS 2 p. Wheelers Grove, Iowa. Concerns a Mormon conference and Mormon doctrinal positions.

 

1881 Nov. 26

R. Patterson to James R. Colt? ALS 4 p. Pittsburgh, Pa. Letter includes ms copy (not in Patterson's hand) of an article from the Pittsburgh Telegraph of Aug. 24, 1876, concerning Sidney Rigdon's 1836 Meadville, Pa. speech on Joseph Smith's "Revelation."

 

1884-1897 anti-Mormon materials [stored in folder 6]:

Statements alleging Mormon immorality and criminality, 25 items. Manuscript, typescript, and printed statements; newspaper clippings, and a letter. This material was collected by Arthur B. Deming, son of Miner B. Deming, and some was published in 1888 in Oakland, Calif.

 

1886 Feb. 18

Statement of Elihu B. Washburne. TDS 9 p. Chicago, Ill. Concerns the Mormon situation in Illinois in the 1840s, and its political implications in an 1842 election, and the Icarian Settlement at Nauvoo.

 

1886 Sept. 18

Joseph Smith to Harry G. Cutler. ALS 10--. Lamoni, Iowa. Concerning the relation of the Book of Mormon and Solomon Spaulding's The Manuscript Found.

 

1889-1954 Items about Kinderhood Plates [stored in folder 1a]:

Items about the Kinderhook Plates include: photographs of both sides of the plate at the Chicago History Museum and typed copies of statements by F.C.A. Richardson (July 15, 1889), M. Wilford Poulson (July 30, 1929), and James D. Bales (Dec. 24, 1954) about the plates.

            The Kinderhook Plates are 6 brass tablets that were dug up by three men in 1843 near the town of Kinderhook in Pike County, Illinois. One of them is in the collection of the Chicago History Museum (not in the Research Center). All 6 plates are shown in a broadside [broadside #2a listed in Section D below]. Three of the plates also are shown in facsimile in William A. Linn's The Story of the Mormons (New York, 1902) p. 86. The second one pictured by Linn's book is very much like the one in the collection of the Chicago History Museum. Opinions on the authenticity of the Kinderhook Plates and their relationship to the Mormons have changed over the decades.

 

Undated material:

Walter C. Wyman's statement concerning "King" Strang and his followers, 1850-56. AD 2 p.

 

2 fragments of a letter containing the signature of Brigham Young.

 


*******************

Section B. Description of the microfilm set of materials about Mormons in the collections of Chicago Historical Society as of August 1962:

 

Table of contents for Section B:

Arrangement of materials on the microfilm,

Description of changes in the microfilm set:

List of materials not in the final microfilm set:

 

Arrangement of materials on the microfilm:

Materials shown on the three microfilm reels are arranged in this order:

Reel 1. Manuscripts (ca. 265 items, 1832-1954):

1. Items from the Mason Brayman papers, folders 10 & 11: 33 items, Sept.-Dec. 1845.

2. Items from the Hardin family papers, folders 285, 293, & 294: 37 items, 1843-1846.

3. Collection of manuscripts about Mormons, 1832-1954: ca. 175 items.

4. Miscellaneous letters and other documents (interfiled with "3. Collection" according to date of the item: 21 items, 1841-1924), including--

Asbury, Henry (Nov. 20, 1848)

Bross, Mary (Mar. 22, 1871)

Cummings, Alfred ( Feb. 29, 1864)

Davis, David (Jan. 28, 1845 and Dec. 17, 1845)

Hancock County, Ill. (undated chronology of events 1836-1845)

Johnson, Milas E. (Sept. 23, 1923 and Mar. 7, 1924)

Kirk, John, letterbook, vol. 2, in volumes section (1853 Apr. 3 & 13 on p. 29-34 & 48-51)

Munn, John - Journal, vol. 18, in volumes section (1849 Apr. 23 on p. 191)

Scharf Collection -folder #12. (1915?-1923, 4 items)

Vallet, E. (Jan. 23, 1886)

Warren, Edward (June 14, 1841)

Welch, Ebenezer (Sept. 19, 1841)

Wells, Albert E. (1909)

Young, Brigham, 1801-1877. (Nov. 4, 1873)

Young, Brigham (son of the above) (Feb. 1, 1886)

Reel 1. Broadsides (36 items, 1839-1870)

Reel 2. Stock ledger and index of the Mormon Bank, Kirtland, Ohio, 1836-1837.

Reel 3. Newspapers related to Mormons.

 

Description of changes in the microfilm set:

Mormon material was microfilmed in April 1962 (Accession number of the microfilm: 1962.0338.). In August of 1962 additions were made to the negative microfilm from the Hardin family papers and miscellaneous manuscript material, chiefly of a non-Illinois nature, and from the Broadside Collection (Accession number for the amended microfilm: 1962.0352). G. G. Worthington's letter of March 29, 1847, and a Docket Book of cases tried in Nauvoo, 1841-1845 were added to the microfilm in Oct. 1962 (Accession number of the microfilm: 1962.0376).

 

List of materials not in the final microfilm set:

1841, Mar. 31

Commission issued by Gov. Thomas Carlin, Springfield, Ill., to Robert D. Foster as Surgeon in Chief of the Nauvoo Legion of the Illinois State Militia. DS

OVERSIZE COLLECTIONS: CARLIN, THOMAS

 

1842, Dec. 2

Joseph Smith document. DS 2 p. including endorsements. Nauvoo, Illinois. Summons commanding Charles Allen, Carlos Granger, Gilbert Thompson, Elijah Session, and Michael Barns to appear before Joseph Smith, a Justice of the Peace, to give testimony concerning a complaint made by the City of Nauvoo against Amos Davis. Issued and signed by Joseph Smith.

MORMON COLLECTION. Document acquired by CHM, March 1972 (M1972.0014)

 

1842 Dec. 28

John J. Hardin letter to John T. Stuart. ALS 4 p. Springfield, Ill. Comments on the Illinois political situation; Mormon vote will be a factor in redistricting of the state.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844, Jan. 15

Mark W. Delahay letter to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Virginia, Illinois. Illinois political situation. Mormons in favor of tariff, bank, distribution of proceeds of the sales of the public domain; therefore in favor of Mr. Clay.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844, Mar. 19

William D. Abernethy letter to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Augusta, Illinois. Current political news. Comments on unreliable political leanings of the Mormons: Joseph Smith, a Presidential candidate, will not support Clay; Whigs can carry state if Mormons do not join the Locos.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844, Apr. 22

Simeon Francis letter to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Springfield, Ill. Political news. Can't understand Joseph Smith, who may tell the Mormons to vote for Clay.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844, Dec. 24

Theodore F. Hurd letter to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Frankers Grove, Ill. Request for Whig campaign literature. Remarks on misfortune of belonging to Mormon Congressional District.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1860, Oct. 29

William Barry letter to Mason Brayman. ALS 4 p. Chicago. Asks him to assist Dr. James in his work on a book on Mormons.

COLLECTIONS: BARRY, WILLIAM.

 

Broadside #3a in the list in Section D.

Nauvoo Neighbor -- Extra: Sunday, 3 o'clock, p.m., June 30, 1844. "Awful Assassination! The Pledged faith of the State of Illinois stained with innocent blood by a Mob! …."

(6 columns, separated by thick black rules, 58 1/2 cm. X 40 3/4 cm.)

[CHM purchased 1968]

 

Broadside #13a in the list in Section D.

"A Circular, Of The High Council. To The Members Of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, And To All Whom It May Concern: Greeting … We, the members of the High Council … embrace this opportunity to inform you, that we intend to send out into the Western country from this place … a company of pioneers … Done in council at the City of Nauvoo, on the 20th day of January, 1846 …."

(3 columns, 31 x 23 1/2 cm.)

            Intent to establish a Mormon colony in the western country.

[CHM purchased 1968]

 

Broadside #33a in the list in Section D.

"No. 4. Epitome of the Faith and Doctrines of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We believe in God … We believe that …" Plano, Ill. [1852].

(9 1/4 x 5 1/4 in.)

 


*******************

Section C. Descriptive, chronological list of manuscripts about Mormons at the Chicago History Museum in the "Collection of manuscripts about Mormons"; the Mason Brayman papers; the Hardin family papers; and miscellaneous other small collections.

            In this section, MORMON COLLECTION identifies the "Collection of manuscripts about Mormons."

 

Abbreviations used in this list:

            ALS = autograph letter signed (letter in the handwriting and signature of its author)

            ADS = autograph document signed (document in the handwriting and signature of its author)

            AD = handwritten document, not signed by its author (but may be signed by someone else)

            DS = document signed by its authorizing person, but the body of the document probably is not in his/her handwriting

            AN = autograph note (handwritten note, not signed by its author)

            Ms = manuscript item

            Mss = manuscripts

            p. = page, pages

            TD = typed document

 

1832 June 6

Joseph Smith to Emma Smith. ALS 3 p. Greenville, Ind. Personal matters.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1836 Oct. 13

Certificate of the Ordination of Sylvester B. Stoddard, signed by Joseph Smith. DS 1 p. Kirtland, Ohio.

 

1836-1837

Stock Ledger and Index to the ledger of the Mormon Bank at Kirtland, Ohio. 2 items. Contains entries for Joseph and Hyrum Smith, Brigham Young, Sidney

Rigdon, and other Mormon leaders.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1840 Jan. 20

Joseph Smith to Emma Smith. ALS 1 p. Chester County, Penn. Personal.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1840 July 20

Joseph Smith, Sr.‘s Patriarchal blessing upon Robert D. Foster. DS? 2 p. [Nauvoo, Ill.]

 

1840 Oct. 20

Orson Pratt to Robert Foster. ALS 4 p. Edinburgh, Scotland. Concerns the prosperity of the Mormon Church in America and its possibilities abroad.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1841-1845

Docket book of civil and criminal cases tried in the Nauvoo (Ill.) Court House.

Ms 1 vol. (258 p.) Includes docket entries by Justices of the Peace Aaron Johnson and Ebenezer Robinson. Among the litigants are; Jacob B. Backenstos, Francis M. Higbee, Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith, and Brigham Young.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1841, Mar. 31

Springfield, Ill. Commission issued by Gov. Thomas Carlin to Robert D. Foster as Surgeon in Chief of the Nauvoo Legion of the Illinois State Militia. DS 1 p.

OVERSIZE COLLECTIONS: CARLIN, THOMAS (not in Mormon collection microfilm)

 

1841 June 14

A. R. Parker to Edward Warren. ALS 3 p. Quincy, Ill. Concerns Joseph Smith's apprehension according to a requisition of the Gov. of Missouri.

COLL: WARREN, EDWARD.

 

1841 Sept. 19

Ebenezer Welch to Milton Welch. ALS 4 p. Monmouth, Ill. The Mormons are fast increasing in Illinois; about two hundred of them in a wagon train passed through town en route to Nauvoo; a Mormon temple is being built in Nauvoo; has seen a Mormon Bible, which seems a "mess of nonsense."

COLL: WELCH, EBENEZER.

 

1841 Sept. 30

Joseph Smith for John S. Fullmer to Thomas King. ALS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. relative to the expenses of Smith's arrest and trial.

MORMON COLLECTION

 

1842 Aug. 8

Judges of the Municipal Court of Nauvoo to Thomas C. King. DS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Ordering the release of Joseph Smith.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1842 Dec. 28

John J. Hardin to John t. Stuart. ALS 4 p. Springfield, Ill. Comments on the Illinois political situation; Mormon vote will be a factor in redistricting of the state.

HARDIN COLLECTION (not in Mormon collection microfilm)

 

1842 Dec. 2

Joseph Smith document. DS 2pp including endorsements. Nauvoo, Illinois. Summons commanding Charles Allen, Carlos Granger, Gilbert Thompson, Elijah Session, and Michael Barns to appear before Joseph Smith, a Justice of the Peace, to give testimony concerning a complaint made by the City of Nauvoo against Amos Davis. Issued and signed by Joseph Smith.

MORMON COLLECTION. (Acquired 1972 (1972.0014); not in Mormon collection microfilm)

 

1843 Mar. 10, Mar. 23

Indenture involving sale of Lot no. 4 in Block no. 1 in Nauvoo by Joseph Smith to Sarah Foster. DS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Verso contains Joseph Smith's certification of the deed (signed for him by William Clayton), Mar. 23, 1843.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1843 Mar. 15

Receipt of $16 from Cirus? Ellsworth? To be paid towards building the temple at Nauvoo. Signed by Zekiel G_______-and Isaac Davies?. ADS 1 p. Haldimand, [Illinois]?.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1843 Mar. 25

Joseph Smith's Appointment of Franklin J. Bartlett as his Attorney. ADS 1 p. COPY? Hancock County, Illinois.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1843 Nov. 15

Robert S. Wiley to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. St. Louis, Mo. Forwards facsimiles of Mormon plates, which were obtained from him by fraud; disregard Mormon lies about him (i.e., Wiley).

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1843 Dec. 9

Francis Markov to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Washington, D.C. Concerns actions to be taken relevant to the Kinderhook Plates.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1843 discovery of Kinderhood Plates (See 1889-1954 Items about Kinderhook Plates)

 

1844 Jan.

Anson G. Henry to John J. Hardin. ALS 3 p. Springfield, Ill. Concerns the impending national and Illinois elections; refers to the tendencies of the Mormon voters.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Jan. 15

Mark W. Delahay to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Virginia, Ill. Illinois politics. Mormons in favor of tariff, bank, distribution of proceeds of the sales of the public domain, therefore in favor of Mr. Clay.

HARDIN COLLECTION (not in Mormon collection microfilm).

 

1844 Jan. 29

Thomas Ford to ? ALS 4 p. Springfield, Ill. Ford's opinions on the Mormon situation in Hancock County, Ill; wishes that his views be promulgated by the recipient.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1844 Mar. 19

William D. Abernethy to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Augusta, Ill. Current political news. Comments on unreliable political leanings of the Mormons; Joseph smith, a Presidential candidate, will not support clay; Whigs can carry state if Mormons do not join the Locos.

HARDIN COLLECTION (not in Mormon collection microfilm).

 

1844 Apr. 22

Simeon Francis to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Springfield, Ill. Political news. Can't understand Joseph Smith, who may tell the Mormons to vote for Clay.

HARDIN COLLECTION (not in Mormon collection microfilm).

 

1844 June 25

Miner R. Deming to Col. Levi Williams of the 59th Regiment, Illinois Militia. DS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Ordering Williams to be at Golden's Point on the 27th in preparation for tentative march into Nauvoo.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1844 June 27

Thomas Ford to Col. Levi Williams. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Ordering the discharge of the troops at Warsaw and in the vicinity.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1844 June 28

James Gregg to Thomas Gregg. ALS 2 p. Warsaw, Ill. Account of the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1844 July 10

Samuel Otho Williams to John A. Prickett. ALS 7 p. Carthage, Ill. Account of the destruction of the Expositor Press and the Capture and murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. See also Prickett to Washburne, May 19, 1884 folder 5

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1844 Aug. 5

Thomas Ford to John J. Hardin. ALS 3 p. Springfield, Ill. Places Hardin in control of Hancock County during his absence; gives instructions for handling situation.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Sept. 18

Edward D. Baker to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Springfield, Ill. Offers to withdraw his troops if deemed advisable by Hardin.

HARDING COLLECTION.

 

1844 Sept. 18

Thomas Ford to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Springfield, Ill. disavows use of "politics" in Hardin's appointment.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Sept. 18

Thomas Ford to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Springfield, Ill. Concerns the raising of troops for the Militia.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Sept. 24

Miner R. Deming and M. McConnel to William T. Head. ALS 1 p. Carthage. Requesting 100 mounted men, if available, to handle mob in Carthage, Illinois.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1844 Sept. 27

John J. Hardin to Thomas Ford. ALS 1 p. Camp Mississippi, [Illinois]. Concerns troop movements on the morrow. Includes Ford's pencil reply on the verso.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Sept. 30

Statement of Thomas Ford. ADS 1 p. Camp Edwards, Ill. Lists terms under which Levi Williams, Thomas C. Sharp and Joseph H. Jackson are willing to surrender; upon surrender they are to be guarded by troops under command of John J. Hardin.

MORMON COLLECTIONS:

 

1844 Oct. 2

Attorneys' Agreement, signed by A. P. Bledsoe, Thompson Campbell, Orville H. Browning, and Edward D. Baker. DS 1 p. Quincy, Ill. concerns an inquiry into the conduct of Levi Williams and Thomas C. Sharp.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1844 Oct. 16

John J. Hardin to William Walters and George R. Webber. ALS 3 p. Jacksonville, Ill. concerns his [Hardin's] relationship to the murder of Mr. Norris. (To the Editors of the State Register).

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Nov. 8

Thomas Ford to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Jacksonville, Ill. concerns the submission of military reports.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Dec. 5

William B. Warren to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Jacksonville, Ill. Concerns the payment of the troops under his command during the "Late War."

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1844 Dec. 24

Theodore F. Hurd to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Frankers Grove, Ill. Request for Whig campaign literature. Remarks on misfortune of belonging to Mormon Congressional District.

HARDIN COLLECTION (not in Mormon collection microfilm).

 

[1844]?

"Constitution" of the Warsaw Cadets. AD 3 p. [Warsaw, Ill.]. Includes signatures of 26 members of the Cadets"

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 Jan. 16

Z. N. Garbutt to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Pittsfield, Ill. concerns the Militia service of Pike County men during the Mormon troubles in Hancock County.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Jan. 27

Charles Balance to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Springfield, Ill. Mentions anti-Mormon feeling in Illinois. Letter is chiefly concerned with political opposition to Gov. Ford.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Jan. 28

Sarah (Walker) Davis to William P. Walker. ALS 4 p. Springfield, Ill. PHOTOSTAT ONLY. Concerning speeches dealing with the repeal of the Nauvoo Charter.

COLLECTION: DAVIS, DAVID.

 

1845 (Spring)

List of constables, specifying whether they are Mormon, Anti-Mormon, Democrat, or Jack-Mormon. AD 2 p.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 Apr. 25

Brigham Young to James Fenner. LS 3 p. Nauvoo, Illinois. Discusses plight of the Mormons in Illinois; seeks asylum in Rhode Island; asks Fenner for advice as to what to do. (Apparently in the hand of Willard Richards, Clerk)

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 May 19-May 28

Testimony of witnesses at the trial (May 19-28, 1845) of those indicted for the murder of Joseph and Hyrum Smith. Ms 55 p.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 July ?

B? K. Hawley to Albert Coe. ALS 1 p. Chicago, Ill. Account of author's travels; mentions seeing Deming, the jail where the Smiths were murdered and the hanging of the two Hodges.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 2

Lisle Smith to Hamilton Risley. ALS 3 p. Philadelphia, Penn. Personal matters; earnings on Smith's Chicago property holdings.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 17

Daniel H. Wells to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Relative to conditions in the city.

HARDIN COLLECTION

 

1845 Sept. 17

Newspaper clippings from the Warsaw Signal, Sept. 17, 1845. 2 p.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 19

Jacob B. Backenstos Order. ANS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Orders safe passage for E. Rand.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 21

William B. Warren to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Jacksonville, Ill. Concerns Anti-Mormon activities, the movements of Backenstos.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 23

Brigham Young to Thomas Gregg. MS 3 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Gives terms for Mormon departure from Hancock County. (Apparently in the hand of, and signed for Young by Willard Richards, Clerk).

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 25

David Prince to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Jacksonville, Ill. Obligations to patients prevents him from currently joining Hardin; will join him if absolutely necessary, however.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 27

Sworn statements. 5 items. Hancock County, Ill. Statements by Lyman Stephens, Samuel S. Thornton, David A. Curtis, Marcellus McKown, George E. King, and Ozias Strong concerning Anti-Mormon depredations against them. Counter-signed by Isaac Higbee, Justice of the Peace.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON

 

1845 Sept. 28

H. G. Ferris to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Relative to the troops assembled under Ferris.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 29

Jacob B. Backenstos to John J. Hardin. ALS 4 p. Carthage, Ill. Protesting Hardin's disbandment of his (Backenstos') posse.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Sept. 30

Brigham Young to John J. Hardin. MS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Seeks Hardin's prevention of an anti-Mormon convention at Carthage on the morrow. (Apparently in the hand of, and signed for Young by Willard Richards, Clerk for the council.)

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. 1

Warrants. 2 items. Hancock County, Ill. Warrants for Slattery, Hill, et al for burning of Mormon buildings on September 11th. Signed by Higbee, J. P.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Oct. 1

Warrant. ADS 1 p. Hancock County, Ill. For Preston Hill, William Spencer, Harry Cooper, et al for burning of Mormon buildings on September 12th. Signed by Higbee, J. P.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Oct. 1

Brigham Young to John J. Hardin, et al. LS? 3 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Specifies terms for Mormon withdrawal from Nauvoo. (Apparently in the handwriting of Willard Richards, Clerk.)

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. 1

John J. Hardin, Stephen A. Douglas, William B. Warren, and James A. McDougall to Brigham Young and Council. ALS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Requests details of proposed Mormon removal from Illinois. P. S. by Willard Richards, Clerk.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. [2]

Announcement of measures decided upon by Citizens of Hancock County at Meeting on October 2, 1845; Requests resignation of county officers who are Mormons or who have aided them.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. 3

John J. Hardin's Proclamation to the Citizens of Hancock County. TYPESCRIPT ONLY 3 p. Carthage, Ill. Relative to the purpose of the troops under his command.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. 3

Hardin, Douglas, Warren and McDougall to Brigham Young and the Council TYPESCRIPT ONLY. 3 p. Carthage, Ill. Concerns the necessity of removing the Mormons from Illinois.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. 6

Hardin, Douglas, Warren, and McDougall to the Anti-Mormons of Hancock County. ADS 4 p. Carthage, Ill. Concerns future relations with the Mormons, and Anti-Mormon crimes.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. 8

Jacob B. Backenstos to John J. Hardin. ALS 1 p. Virginia Hotel Writer may be forced to shoot Mr. Worrell in self-defense in light of Worrell's public threats against his life.

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1845 Oct. 10

John J. Hardin to Douglas, Warren and McDougall. ALS 2 p. Quincy, Illinois. Expresses satisfaction with their service and cooperation during the Mormon troubles.

HARDIN COLLECTION

 

1845 Oct. 11

William B. Warrant to John J. Hardin. ALS 2p. Carthage, Ill. Mr. Debonair found murdered; has informed the Mormon Council that he can not publicize his visit to their city lest its purpose be thwarted; has not had news of the Trial of Smith and Gardiner.

HARDIN COLLECTION

 

1845 Oct. 13

Thomas Ford to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Springfield, Ill. States his approval of Hardin's conduct in the Hancock County disturbance.

HARDIN COLLECTION

 

1845 Oct. 20

List of Grand Jurors for Hancock County Circuit Court, ADS 1 p.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Oct. 26

Affidavit. DS 2 p. Hancock County, Ill. Affidavit of George Bachman relative to the attempt to secure jurors favorable to Backenstos in his trial for the murder of Worrell.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Oct. 27

General Order. DS 1 p. Headquarters. Order of W. B. Warren forbidding the carrying of deadly weapons in Carthage during the Circuit Court session.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON

 

1845 Oct. 27

Sworn statement. DS 1 p. Hancock County, Ill. Statement of Lyman L. Calkins that Henry Miller is one of Backenstos' men.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Oct. 27

Pierpont Sperry to Anson Sperry. ALS 3 p. Ft. Madison, Iowa. Account of Mormon incidents in Hancock County, including indictment of Brigham Young for counterfeiting.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1845 Nov. 3

James E. Dunn to J. W. Brattle, et al. ALS 1 p. Augusta, Ill. Report of Maj. Dunlap's conversation with Backenstos, concerns the latter's premeditation in Worrell's murder.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 12

Jacob Gale to Brayman. ALS 1 p. Peoria, Ill. Will send subpoenas as requested in the Backenstos trials.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 16

W. J. Salisbury to W. B. Warren. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Requests protection for journey into Nauvoo; relates his ungentlemanly treatment by Mr. Worth.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 16

Mason Brayman to Gov. Ford. Incomplete letter, not sent. AL 3 p. Carthage, Ill. Danger of open outbreak between Mormon factions in light of continuing depredations on both sides; relates specific detrimental actions; arson, Durfee's murder.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 17

Orson Hyde to William B. Warren. ALS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Requests protection for crop gatherers; protests Durfee's unprovoked murder and burning of Rice's house.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 18

Willard Richards to Brayman. ALS 2 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Difficulty of obtaining witnesses in the Durfee murder trial; those involved fear recriminations while gathering crops in the south part of the county; avows general Mormon opposition to thievery.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. [18]

Resolutions of the Anti-Mormon citizens of Hancock County in Meeting on November 18, 1845. AD 3 p. Censures criminal acts against the Mormons and approves Maj. Warren's handling of the situation.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 20-21

Subpoenas. 2 items. Hancock County, Ill. Subpoenas for John Peyton, William Eyers and Wilmott in the case of Illinois vs. George Bachman.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 22

Subpoena. DS 1 p. Hancock County, Ill. Subpoena for John Peyton in the case of Illinois vs. John Slattery, et al.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 24

John M. finch to W. B. Warren. ALS 1 p. Rontoosuc, Ill. Is unable to produce witness in trial. COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 27

Alexander Dunlop to Brayman. ALS 1 p. Jacksonville, Ill. Requests release from summons as witness in Backenstos trial – all that he knows relative to the matter he has heard from Backenstos. Includes a similar note to Brayman from M. Stacy.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 28

James W. Brattle to Brayman. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Relative to the subpoenaing of witnesses in the Backenstos trial.

COLLECTION.: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Nov. 28

E. Rand to Brayman. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Won't appear at court, as he has heard from Backenstos that his appearance isn't a necessity.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Dec. 5

Brayman to Warren. AL incomplete. 2 p. Peoria, Ill. Apology for his ineffectual speech at the trail; feels that Backenstos will be acquitted.

COLLECTION.: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Dec. 11

William B. Warren to Brayman. ALS 2 p. Carthage, Ill. Mormons are pleased with the procedure of the trial, Anti-Mormons greatly disappointed; fears an outbreak near Christmas if the troops remain, earlier if they leave; people look to Brayman for curtailment of Backenstos and friends.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Dec. 17

David Davis to F. W. Rockwell. ALS ? p. Bloomington, Ill. PHOTOSTAT ONLY OF TYPESCRIPT COPY. 4 p. Mormons will leave Illinois in the Spring; civil war will result if they do not depart; "revelations which could be made at Nauvoo would astound you."

COLLECTION: DAVIS, DAVID.

 

1845 Dec. 20

William B. Warren to Brayman. ALS 1 p. Jacksonville, Ill. Has been called to Jacksonville on account of his son's illness; will soon return to Carthage.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON

 

1845 Dec. 21

J. H. Sherman to Brayman. ALS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Invitation to a New Year's public dinner by the citizens of Carthage and vicinity for the troops.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 Dec. 31

James O. Morgan to Brayman. ALS 4 p. Carthage, Ill. Account of 2 incidents: one involving a false arrest in Nauvoo by a detachment of riflemen, involving Lt. Prentiss and Mr. Roberts; the other Mr. Miles' ("an infernal scoundrel") trading-off of loaned horses.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

1845 [Dec.]

Abstract of Testimony in the Trial of the People of Illinois vs. Backenstos. AD 50 p. (In Brayman's handwriting folder no. 1.

COLLECTION: BRAYMAN, MASON.

 

[1845]?

"Muster roll of the … 59th Regiment 4th Brigade and 5th Division of Illinois Militia under the command of Levi Williams… [who] were mustered into the service … and performed Military duty from the 17th to the 27th day of June A.D. 1844." 11 items, 42 p. Lists military pay and rations allowances.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

[1845]?

Agreement to contribute money to the Hancock County Treasury in event of its depletion due to an order of the County Commissioners' Court. Miner H. Deming, C. Robison, and Jacob B. Backenstos pledge $100 each, and A. W. Blakesley and G. W. Stigall? $50 each. AD 1 p. (Hancock County, Ill.)_

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

[1845]?

"Backenstos Bond from which Joel Catlin appealed." Ad 1 p. Contains Backenstos' name and 7 others, and pencil note concerns "worthless Mormon securities." (Item may refer to one immediately above.)

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 Feb. 22

James J. Strang to Emma Smith. ALS 2 p. Voree, Wisconsin. Comments on the current state of the Mormon church; regrets the "abominable things now taught and done in Nauvoo; may come to Nauvoo if God spares the city; would appreciate her assistance should he come to the city.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 Mar. 30

Thomas Gregg to John J. Hardin. ALS 2 p. Warsaw, Ill. Requests information for his written history of the Mormons.

COLL. HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

1846 Apr. 21

Emma Smith to Thomas Gregg. ALS 2 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Does not have any historical papers or items in her possession, Those of her husband were carried off; refuses to comment on the Nauvoo situation.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 May 18

A list of cases on the Docket of the Hancock County Circuit Court involving Mormons and Jack-Mormons. AD 1 p. [Hancock County, Ill.]

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 May 19

Nathaniel Grant to Henry Asbury. ALS 3 p. Nauvoo. Comments on the Nauvoo situation, Mormon evacuation of the city, and Mormon opposition to Strang's followers.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 June 20

Affidavit of Thomas Moffitt. DS 1 p. n.p. denies previous affidavit to the effect that his life had been threatened, or that he had been compelled to join an Anti-Mormon mob.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 Aug. 24

Robert L. Smith, Levi Williams, and Thomas Geddes to Henry Stephens. LS 1 p. Carthage, Ill. Asking Gen. Stephens to call out his brigade as soon as possible.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 Sept. 13

Thomas S. Brockman to Henry Stephens. ALS 1 p. Anti-Mormon Camp, Nauvoo, Illinois. Report of his attack on Nauvoo; asks aid in finishing off the town. Contains John Carlin's endorsement, reasserting the request for additional troops.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1846 Sept. 13-19

Correspondence, committee reports, etc. relative to the Mormon evacuation of Nauvoo. ca. 35 items, including some contemporary copies. The principals involved are Andrew Johnston, Chairman of the Quincy Committee; Thomas S. Brockman; and Benjamin Clifford. Of especial interest are: Brockman's Ultimatum of the 15th and the Signed Treaty of the 16th. [See also N. W. Bliss's letter, July 16, 1884 in folder 5.]

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

[1846]?

Signatures of "North Ward" militia volunteers. DS 1 p. n.p.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1847?

Petition of Citizens of Hancock County to the Illinois Senate and House of Rep. DS 2 p. [Hancock City, Illinois] Requesting payment for their Mormon war services.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1847 Jan. 17

Thomas Brockman to Andrew Johnston and Henry Asbury. ALS 3 p. Mt. Sterling, Ill. Explains his actions in the Mormon war; comments on current conditions in Nauvoo and the treachery of alleged anti-Mormons.

MORMON COLLECTION

 

1847 Mar. 29

G.G. Worthington to Thomas J. Hazlett. Nauvoo, Ill. Provides information on: medical faculty, population, surrounding country, future prosperity, and "prospect for mechanics. ALS 3 p.

MORMON COLLECTION

 

1847 Jan. 27

Joseph Hatchett, Levi Williams, and Samuel Knox to Reps. John Morrison and James Stark. ALS 1 p. Green Plains, Hancock County. Requesting payment for Hancock County men for their services in the Mormon war.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1847 Feb. 13

Thomas Brockman to W. Dills and Henry Asbury. ALS       1 p. Mt. Sterling, Ill. Plans to be with them on the 22nd; lists itinerary of his temperance lectures.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1847 May 1

M. Couchman? To Henry Stephens.   ALS 1 p. n.p. Encloses order relevant to the raising of volunteers for the Illinois militia.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1848 Apr. 30

James Cameron to Mr. Brattle. ALS 4 p. n.p. Describes his difficulties with the Mormons in Hancock County during the recent Mormon War.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1848 Nov. 10

Andrew Johnston to Henry Asbury. ALS 3 p. Richmond, Virginia. Has published an article on the Mormons.

COLLECTION: ASBURY, HENRY.

 

1849 Apr.23

John Munn's Journal. Comments on Nauvoo and the destroyed Mormon Temple there. VOL.: MUNN, JOHN. JOURNAL, VOL. 18 p. 191

 

1849 Sept. 9

J. H. Mulholland to Thomas Sharp. ALS 4 p. n.p. Informs Sharp of Mormon plot on his life, and other Mormon treachery; lists intended victims.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1851 Sept. 22

Orsemus Turner to Thomas Gregg. ALS 2 p. Rochester, N.Y. Asking assistance for his history of the Mormons.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

[1852]?

W? H? Holeman to ? . fragment of letter. 1 p. n.p. Relates an incident involving Brigham Young's taking of a "spiritual wife".

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1853 Apr.3-13

John Kirk's Letterbook. Describes: two-to-three hundred English Mormons on their way to Salt Lake City; his visit to Nauvoo and conversation with Joseph Smith's mother; the ruins of the Mormon temple; and the "spiritual marriage" ceremony of the Mormons.

VOL: KIRK, JOHN. LETTERBOOK, VOL. 2, p. 29-34; 48-51

 

1853 Apr. 30

W. W. Drummond to Messrs. Warren and Edmunds. ALS 2 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Business and personal matters.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1860 Oct. 29

William Barry to Mason Brayman. ALS 4 p. Chicago. Asks him to assist Dr. James in his work on a book on Mormons.

COLLECTION: BARRY, WILLIAM

[Not in Mormon collection microfilm].

 

1864 Feb. 11

William Lynch to John f. Kinney. ALS 2 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Personal matters.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1864 Feb. 29

Alfred Cummings to John Ham_____ ALS 3 p. Boston, Mass. Letter not relevant to Mormons, but contains 3 newspaper clippings pertinent to the Mormon Rebellion in Utah in the1850s.

COLLECTION: CUMMINGS, ALFRED.

 

1864 Mar. 2

John Taylor to John F. Kinney. ALS 2 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Seeking aid in securing a passport for Orson Pratt

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1864 Nov. 28

George A. Smith to John F. Kinney. ALS 1 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. News of the city; there are a great many gamblers there, and commotion over the Great Salt Lake City and Utah Lake Canal Company.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1866 June 17

Daniel H. Wells to Maj. Gen. R. T. Burton. ALS 2 p. Indian Farm, 12 mile Creek, [Utah]. Plans to go to Circleville in light of an impending Indian attack.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1868 Sept. ?

Brigham Young to Brethren working on his railroad contract. ALS 1 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Asks them to continue working on the railroad, rather than to attend a Mormon conference.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1869 Apr. 21

George A. Smith to John M. Stout. ALS 2 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Avers that the teachings of the Mormon Church are in accord with those of the Old and New Testaments. Includes newspaper clipping, which gives the basic tenets of the Mormon faith.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1870 Jan. 21

Emma Smith Bidamon to Joseph Smith. ALS 1 p. Nauvoo, Ill. Forwards a letter (not included) which may be from Gen. James A. Bennet, one of Brigham's converts; Bennet is described as the "old arch hypocrite"; author dislikes masques, religious ones most of all.

 

1871 Mar. 22

Mary (Jansen) Bross to her cousin. ALS 6 p. Chicago, Ill. Mentions travelers to Utah, and comments on Mormon polygamy and Brigham Young's absolute rule.

COLLECTION: BROSS, MARY (JANSEN)

 

1873 Nov. 4

Brigham Young to ? ANS 1 p. Salt Lake City, Utah. Statement that the "Pioneers" (143 men) first entered Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847.

COLLECTION: YOUNG, BRIGHAM, 1891-1877

 

1876 June 30

George Q. Cannon to ? ALS 1 p. Washington, D.C. Has obtained some Indian curiosities for recipient.

COLL.: MORMON COLLECTION

 

1878 Dec. 9

W. W. Blair to Joseph Smith. ALS 2 p. Sandwich, Ill. Concerning the ministry of the Church; unfavorable comments on G. J. Adams; prefers J. J. Cornish for the position; Censures W. B. Smith.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1878-1892

Correspondence, statements, and a newspaper clipping, concerning various books and articles on Mormons. 38 items. The principal correspondents are Joseph Smith III and Thomas Gregg. Most of the letters are directed to Albert D. Hager of the Chicago Historical Society. Letters by Kate Field, Gov. S. S. Harding, and Cornelia Paddock are also present.

MORMON COLLECTION, FOLDER 5

 

1879 Mar. 30

L. W. Briggs to Joseph Smith. ALS 2 p. Wheelers Grove, Iowa. Concerns a Mormon conference and doctrinal positions.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1881

R. Patterson to James T. Colt? ALS 4 p. Pittsburgh, Penn. Letter includes ms copy (not in Patterson's hand) of an article from the Pittsburgh Telegraph of Aug. 24, 1876, concerning Sidney Rigdon's 1836 Meadville, Penn. speech on Joseph Smith's "Revelation."

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1884-1897

Statements alleging Mormon immorality and criminality. 25 items. Manuscript, typescript, and printed statements; newspaper clippings, and a letter. This material was collected by Arthur B. Deming, son of Miner R. Deming (and some was published in 1888 in Oakland, Calif., under the title: Naked Truths about Mormonism).

MORMON COLLECTION, FOLDER 6

 

1886 Jan. 23

E. Vallet's article "Communism," Typescript 22 p. Gate City. Concerning the Icarian Settlement at Nauvoo.

COLLECTION: VALLET, E.

 

1886 Feb. 11

Brigham Young to Albert D. Hager. ALS 10. Salt Lake City, Utah. Progress on building of Mormon Temples; will send the Chicago Historical Society samples of the wood used therein.

COLLECTION: YOUNG, BRIGHAM.

 

1886 Feb. 18

Statement of Elihu B. Washburne. TDS 9 p. Chicago, Ill. Concerns the Mormon situation in Illinois in the 1840s, and its political implications in an 1842 election, and the Icarian Settlement at Nauvoo.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

1886 Sept. 18

Joseph Smith to Harry G. Cutler. ALS 10--. Lamoni, Iowa. Concerning the relation of the Book of Mormon and Solomon Spaulding's The Manuscript Found.

MORMON COLLECTION.


1889-1954 Items about Kinderhood Plates

Items about the Kinderhook Plates include: photographs of both sides of the plate at the Chicago History Museum and typed copies of statements by F.C.A. Richardson (July 15, 1889), M. Wilford Poulson (July 30, 1929), and James D. Bales (Dec. 24, 1954) about the plates.

MORMON COLLECTION, FOLDER 1a

            The Kinderhook Plates are 6 brass tablets that were dug up by three men in 1843 near the town of Kinderhook in Pike County, Illinois. One of them is in the collection of the Chicago History Museum, not in the Research Center. All 6 plates are shown in a broadside (broadside #2a listed in Section D below). Three of the plates also are shown in facsimile in William A. Linn's The Story of the Mormons (New York, 1902) p. 86. The second one pictured by Linn's book is very much like the one at in the collection of the Chicago History Museum. Opinions on the authenticity of the Kinderhook Plates and their relationship to the Mormons have changed over the decades.

 

1909

Albert E. Wells' partial account of the family of Charles Robison, Jr., early Hancock County settlers. TDS 16 p. Contains a few references to Mormon affairs and Mormons in the family.

COLL.: WELLS, Albert E.

 

1915?-1923

Albert F. Scharf's manuscript map and 3 data sheets on the Mormon Graves near Des Plaines, Ill. 4 items.

COLLECTION: SCHARF COLLECTION.

 

1923-1924

Milas E. Johnson to Joseph Adams. 3 items, 5 p. Ms and typescript. Huntington, Utah. Concerning Ezekiel Johnson, reputed Chicago pioneer, and his Utah progeny.

COLLECTION: JOHNSON, MILAS E.

 

Undated material

"The Mormon Theocracy in Illinois 1840-1845," by Ellen Hardin Walworth. 2 drafts: typescript, with manuscript notations. 26 p. and 28 p. (in folder no. 294)

HARDIN COLLECTION.

 

Walter C. Wyman's statement concerning "King" Strang and his followers, 1850-1856. AD 2 p. undated

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

"Names of the New Citizens Company formed by D. B. Smith for the protection of the City of Nauvoo." AD 2 p. A listing of Nauvoo Anti-Mormons.

COLLECTION: Brayman, Mason.

 

2 fragments of a letter containing the signature of Brigham Young. n.p.

MORMON COLLECTION.

 

Chronology of Events in Hancock County, Illinois, 1836-1845. AD 11 p.

COLLECTION: HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

 


*******************

Section D List of original broadsides related to Mormons at Chicago History Museum

Note: Most of these broadsides are included in microfilm reel 1.

 

1839

Broadside 1. "Public Meeting of the Citizens of Quincy … for the purpose of devising ways and means for the permanent relief of … strangers who have lately been driven from Missouri …" February 28th 1839.

(Original: 15 x 20 cm.)

 

1842(?)

Broadside 2. "Rank Roll of the Nauvoo Legion."

(2 cols., last date 1842. 38 x 30 cm.)

            Broadside listing officers from Lieutenant Generals through third Lieutenants, with dates of enlistment (?).

 

1843

Broadside 2a. "A Brief Account of the Discovery of the Brass Plates recently taken from a mound in the vicinity of Kinderhook, Pike County, Illinois …."

(42 x 29 1/4 cm. negative photostat; two columns of text occupy upper third of sheet; the 12 faces of the 6 plates are reproduced below).

            Original broadside was printed by Tailor & Woodruff in 1843, probably in Nauvoo. Original broadside in Library of Congress. One of the Kinderhook Plates is at the Chicago History Museum.

 

Broadside 3. Warsaw Message--Extra.

            Prospectus of the Second Volume of the Warsaw Message, under the title of The Prairie Message … Warsaw. December 26, 1843

 

1844

Broadside 3a. Nauvoo Neighbor -- Extra: Sunday, 3 o'clock, p.m., June 30, 1844. "Awful Assassination! The Pledged faith of the State of Illinois stained with innocent blood by a Mob! … "

(6 columns, separated by thick black rules, 58 1/2 cm. X 40 3/4 cm.)

[Not included in microfilm; CHM purchased in 1968]

 

Broadside 4. Quincy Herald--Extra. Quincy, Friday Morning 5'o'clock. "Joe and Hiram Smith are Dead …"

(2 cols., 46 1/2 x 15 1/2 cm.)

            Proclamation of Thomas Ford, describing tragedy at Carthage, issuing order regarding troops. Orders dated June 29, 1844. Signed ] Thomas Ford, Governor and Commander in Chief.

 

1845

Broadside 5. Circular, "To the Whole Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. First Meeting in the Temple. On Sunday the 5th day of October …"

(4 cols., 40 1/2 x 29 cm.)

            Describes meeting; extract from minutes of a general conference of the Church held Oct. 6-8, 1845; circular letter to the brethren regarding removal--advice concerning sale of property, construction of wagons for the journey, etc. Signed:  Brigham Young, Pres't. Willard Richards, Clerk.

            Follows a list of committees for the sale of lands, and a list of Captains of Companies for the removal in the spring.

 

Broadside 6. Nauvoo, September 24, 1845.

(2 cols., 27 1/2 x 15 cm.)

            Resolutions describing the treatment of the Mormons to date, requesting fairness and aid in disposing of property, and discussing removal in the spring. Signed:  By order of the Council. Brigham Young, Pres't. Willard Richards, Clerk.

 

Broadside 7. Neighbor--Extra. Nauvoo, Nov. 19, 1845. "Murder and Arson. Edmund Durfee Shot--Two Houses burned."

(3 cols., 30 1/2 x 24 cm.)

            The shooting of Durfee and the destruction of Mormon property; sworn statements of James H. Woodland and Joseph Swymler. Follows one paragraph to the effect that the sale of property is progressing.

 

Broadside 8. "Notice to the Citizens of Hancock County."

(27 1/2 x 25 cm.)

            Miner Deming asks for calmness and pleads self defense--"deplorable event," shooting of Dr. Marshall (?). Dated Carthage, June 24, 1845, and signed: Miner R. Deming.

 

Broadside 9. "Proclamation No. 2. To the Citizens of Hancock County, Ill., and the Surrounding Country."

(4 cols.; 39 1/2 x 27 cm.)

            Proclamation of the sheriff, stating that his life is in danger from the mob, and commanding rioters to disperse and able bodied men to resist further violence. Dated Sept. 16th, A.D.1845, half past 2 o'clock P.M. and signed: J. B. Backenstos, sheriff, Hancock County, Ill.

            A two-paragraph P.S. at bottom of third sheet commends the Mormons for their forbearance, and expresses the hope that no more citizens will join the "notorious Col. Levi Williams, who is at the head of the mob."

 

Broadside 10. "Proclamation No. 5. To the Citizens of Hancock County, and the Surrounding Country."

(4 cols., 44 x 29 1/2 cm.)

            Proclamation of the sheriff, deploring thievery by the anti-Mormon mob, denouncing Thomas C. Sharp, ed. of the Warsaw Signal, and calling a proclamation "Executive Department, Springfield, Sept. 21st, 1845," signed by Thomas Ford, a forgery. Dated Carthage, Sept. 25th, 11 o'clock A.M., 1845, and signed: J. B. Backenstos, Sheriff, H.C.

            Follows sworn statement of John Harper, stating that Backenstos could not have shot Worrel; sworn statement of Ethel B. Rose concerning the mob's threats against George W. Thatcher, clerk C. C. C. Hancock County; sworn statement of James Bellows concerning mob's threat against Hazen Kimball, Justice of the Peace.

 

Broadside 11. "To The Anti-Mormon Citizens of Hancock and Surrounding Counties. Camp Carthage, Oct. 4, 1845."

(3 cols., 41 x 20 1/2 cm.)

            Submits correspondence between the four signers and the "Twelve" at Nauvoo in regard to the removal of the Mormons--Brigham Young's letter stating that they will move in the spring, and the reply of the signers in regard to their peaceful removal. Signed: John J. Hardin, W. B. Warren, S. A. Douglass, J. A. M'Dougal. Warsaw Signal, printer.

 

Broadside 12. Warsaw Signal--Extra: Sept. 24, 1845 …

(4 columns, 48 x 31 cm.)

            Anti-Mormon broadside especially concerned with J. B. Backenstos.

 

1846

Broadside 13a. "A Circular, Of The High Council. To The Members Of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints, And To All Whom It May Concern: Greeting … We, the members of the High Council … embrace this opportunity to inform you, that we intend to send out into the Western country from this place … a company of pioneers … Done in council at the City of Nauvoo, on the 20th day of January, 1846 …"

(3 columns, 31 x 23 1/2 cm.)

            States intent to establish a Mormon colony in the western country.

[Not included in microfilm; CHM purchased 1968]

 

Broadside 13. Circular. Nauvoo, Hancock County, June 15, 1846. By the New Citizens, a Committee of 50 persons: "Address: To the People of the State of Illinois, and the Citizens of Adams, Schuyler, McDonough, Warren, Henderson, Brown, Pike, Knox, Marquette and Hancock Counties, in particular:"

(4 columns, 45 x 29 cm.)

            Against anti-Mormon activities. Signed by 50 men: Servetus Tufts, William E. Clifford, L. C. Bidamon, etc., Committee in behalf of the New Citizens.

 

Broadside 14. Broadside showing Democratic, Whig, and anti-Mormon ballots, Hancock County, election 1846.

(2 columns, 30 1/2 x 14 cm.)

 

Broadside 15. Eagle--extra. Nauvoo, Illinois, August 18, 1846. "Mob Law in Hancock. Proclamation of an Illegally Authorized Deputy Constable--The Mob Again Called Upon to Assemble--Vengeance Threatened Against the New Citizens--Falsehoods--No Anti-Mormon Meeting Ever Held in Nauvoo--Falsehoods of Their Being Any Party in This City Ready to Join the Mob. Tuesday, 9 o'clock P.M."

(2 columns, 61 1/2 x 15 cm.)

            Recital of anti-Mormon activities, and requesting that the Mormons be left in peace until they can move across the river.

 

Broadside 16. Hancock Eagle--Extra. Nauvoo, Illinois, August 20, 1846. "Proclamation to the Citizens of Hancock County."

(39 x 27 cm.)

            Proclamation of Special Constable, stating that Levi Williams, John McAuley, Geo. W. Thatcher, Frank Lofton, Francis M. Higbee, George Bachman, and some forty others, are prepared to resist the service of warrants against them, and calling on the citizens to meet him at the Public Square on the 22nd at 9 o'clock A.M., provided with arms and provisions. Signed:] John C. Bidamon, Special Constable.

 

Broadside 17. Hancock Eagle--Extra. Nauvoo, Monday night, July 13, 1846. "Progress of the insurrection in Hancock! Arrest of outlaws in their den!! Kidnapping of Citizens by the "Regulators"!!!--Examinations of McAuley and Brattle!"

            Requests the friends of law and order to come to the assistance of the New Citizens.

(3 cols., 51 1/2 x 16 cm.)

 

Broadside 18. "Independent Candidate for the Senate, William H. Roosevelt."

(33 x 19 1/2 cm.)

            Presents Roosevelt as candidate in opposition to the convention candidate, J. C. Davis. Dated July 27, 1846, and signed: W. H. Roosevelt.

 

Broadside 19. "Insult to the Governor!"

(4 cols., 43 1/2 x 30 cm.)

            Signed by 19 officers under Ford's command, dated Nauvoo, Nov. 7, 1846, disavowing and deploring, in behalf of the "respectable portion of the anti-Mormon party," an insult tendered Ford by some anti-Mormon women who presented him with a petticoat.

 

Broadside 20. "Memorial. To the Honorable, the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Illinois, in General Assembly convened." [1846]

(3 cols., 25 x 20 cm.)

            Memorial protests the Governor's communication of the "23rd of December last" to the Legislature, regarding anti-Mormon activities, and requests an investigation by the Legislature.

            Space was left at the bottom of the broadside for signatures. CHM's copy has handwritten note in ink: "The above memorial was extensively circulated and signed throughout the county, sent to the Legislature, but was never acted on by that body."

 

Broadside 21. "Minutes of a Conference, held by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints … Cincinnati, Ohio, Jan. 6th, 1846 …"

(5 columns, 49 1/2 x 38 cm.; item trimmed along its right border; a small part of text is missing)

            Primarily pertains to the deaths of Joseph and Hyrum Smith.

 

Broadside 22. "Notice." September 23, 1846.

(17 x 25 1/2 cm.)

            Proclamation stating that Mormons that had left Nauvoo were in need of clothing, material for tents, etc., and asking for contributions.

 

Broadside 23. Public Meeting, of the New Citizens of Nauvoo. [1846]

(2 cols., 20 x 17 cm.)

            Disavows connection with inflammatory handbills that were printed in the office of the Hancock Eagle without the editor's knowledge; commends the editor for suppressing circulation of the bills and for knocking the type into pi. Signed: J. Todd, Chairman, J. H. Daugherty, Secretary.

 

Broadside 24. "Tax Notice. To the tax Payers of Hancock County, Illinois."

(30 x 19 1/2 cm.)

            Proclamation by the sheriff calling on the citizens to pay their taxes: "due for some time and mostly unpaid." Dated Carthage, Jan. 3, 1846, and signed:] J. B. Backenstos, Sheriff and ex-Officio collector.

 

Broadside 25. "To the Citizens of Hancock County!"

(21 x 22 cm.)

            Declares that Ford through broadside, "Insult to the Governor!" Nov. 7, 1846, impeached by virtue of the ladies of Hancock County. Commands anti-Mormons to abstain from violence and let the Governor and the ladies fight it out. Signed: John W. Palmer, Maj. Com. Anti-Mormon forces. Nauvoo, Nov. 12, 1846.

 

Broadside 26. "To the Public."

(3 cols., 29 1/2 x 22 cm.)

            Statement by James W. Singleton, Sept. 11, 1846, regarding the anti-Mormon disturbances and his role therein: his correspondence with J. R. Parker, Major Commanding Illinois volunteers; agreement between anti-Mormons, New citizens, and Mormons; rejection of agreement by anti-Mormon officers; withdrawal of Singleton and Col. Crittenden from Camp Prairie.

 

Broadside 27. "To the Public."

(2 cols., 46 x 15 cm.)

            Recital of anti-Mormon activities, and a defense of them. Dated Carthage, August 29, 1846, and signed: Your fellow citizens, Archibald Williams, John B. Chittenden of Adams County, Thomas Morrison, John D. Mellen, Wesley Williams, Jason H. Sherman of Hancock County, John H. Mitchell of Warren County, Thos. S. Brockman, James W. Singleton of Brown County.

 

Broadside 28. Warsaw Signal. Extra. Sunday, 12 o'clock, M. June 14, 1846.

(2 cols., 52 x 15 cm.)

            Refusal of some Mormons to leave; citizens' and sheriff's plans; citizens urged to arm and repair to Carthage instanter; "correction" of "basest fabrications" printed in Nauvoo Eagle.

 

Broadside 29. Warsaw Signal. Extra. Sunday, 12 o'clock, M. June 14, 1846.

(2 cols., 52 x 15 cm.)

            Refusal of some Mormons to leave; citizens' and sheriff's plans; citizens urged to arm and repair to Carthage instanter; "Correction" of "basest fabrications" printed in Nauvoo Eagle

 

Broadside 30. Warsaw Signal. Extra. Warsaw, January8, 1846.

(2 cols., 30 x 16 cm.)

            Refusal to pay expenses of Sheriff's posse; circumstances of County Clerk's (Thatcher's) dismissal; notice of a tax injunction which prohibits the collector to collect taxes until after the May term of the Circuit Court; each of the two claimants to the clerkship issues a marriage license to one couple, and Major Warren takes the fee in trust.

 

Broadside 31. Warsaw Signal. Extra. Warsaw, Ill., July 16, 1846--11 A.M.

(3 cols., 51 1/2 x 22 1/2 cm.)

            Affidavit of Mrs. Jemima Lofton concerning whipping of Mormons and subsequent reprisals; editorials regarding Mormon excesses and barefaced "falsehoods" in the Hancock Eagle Extra of July 11.

 

Broadside 32. Warsaw Signal. Extra. Warsaw, Monday, Sept. 14th, 12 o'clock, M., 1846. "War! A Battle Fought in Nauvoo!"

(2 cols., 50 1/2 x 15 cm.)

            Describes skirmishes and battle at Nauvoo. Anti-Mormon forces withdraw with seven men wounded.

 

1848

Broadside 33. "To the Public. A proper regard for public opinion, compels me to …" Wm. B. Warren. Jacksonville, Sept. 2, 1848.

(14 x 14 cm.)

            Warren asserts that the allegations of his fraudulent handling of the pay roll while in command of the State troops in Hancock County are completely unsubstantiated.

 

1852

Broadside 33a. "No. 4. Epitome of the Faith and Doctrines of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. We believe in God … We believe that …" Plano, Ill. [1852].

(9 1/4 x 5 1/4 in.)

[Not included in microfilm]

 

1865

Broadside 34. "Pan-Ranagat Miner's Song"

            Poem beginning: "A Few hardy Miners whom Brigham Young did dispise …"

 

Broadside 35. "My Wife has Joined the Mormons"

            Poem beginning: "I'm the picture of dispair,…."

 

Broadside 36. "The Downfall of the Mormonites and Brigham Young!"

            Poem to tune of "The Knickerbocker Line"; beginning: "Come Near and you shall Hear …"

 


*******************

Section E. List of selected original books and pamphlets related to Mormons at Chicago History Museum

            Note: These items are cataloged separately in the Research Center.

 

Publication 1. An appeal to the American People: Being an Account of the Persecutions … Barbarities … State of Missouri. 2nd edition, revised. 60 p. Cincinnati, 1840.

Call#: BX8615 – M6 A4 – 1840a

            Attributed to Sidney Rigdon by William A. Linn's The Story of the Mormons, p. 214.

 

Conyers, Josiah B. SEE Publication 12 listed below

 

Publication 2. Correspondence Between Joseph Smith, the Prophet, and Col. John Wentworth … 14 p. N.Y., 1844.

Call#: BX8638 – W 48

            For a description of this pamphlet see Chicago History, v. 6, no. 9, Fall 1962, p. 283-85

 

Davis, George T. M. SEE Publication 13 listed below

 

Publication 3. Document Containing Correspondence, Orders . Evidence. Given Before the Hon. Austin A. King … at the Court-House in Richmond [Mo.] … on the trial of Joseph Smith, Jr., and Others … 163 p. Fayette, Mo., 1841.

Call#: BX8611 – D65 – 1841

 

Publication 4. Fullmer, John S. Assassination of Joseph and Hyrum Smith … Also a History of the Expulsion of the Saints from Nauvoo. 40 p. Liverpool, 1855.

Call#: BX8611 – F9

            Fullmer was one of the last to visit the Prophet before his assassination. His account is written from personal observation of the situation.

 

Publication 5. Green, John P. Facts Relative to the Expulsion of the Mormons from the State of Missouri, Under the "Exterminating Order". 43 p. Cincinnati, Printed by R. P. Brooks, 1839.

Call#: BX8611 – M69g

 

Publication 6. Hunt, James H. Mormonism: Embracing its Origin … Troubles in Missouri … Expulsion. 340 p. St. Louis, 1844.

Call#: BX8615 – M6 H9

            CHM's copy does not have the 38-page supplement.

 

Publication 7. Jackson, Joseph. A Narrative of the Adventures … of Joseph Jackson in Nauvoo … Depths of Mormon Villainy. 32 p. Warsaw, Ill., August, 1844.

Call#: BX8615 – 129 J13

            For a description of this pamphlet, see Chicago History, v.6, no. 9, Fall 1962, p. 283-85

 

Publication 8. Rigdon, Sidney. Oration Delivered by Mr. S. Rigdon, on the 4th of July, 1838. At Far West, Caldwell County, Missouri. 12 p. Far West [Mo.] Printed at the Journal Office, 1838.

Call#: BX8639 – R44

            For a description, SEE letters with pamphlet, and Chicago History, v. 6, no. 9, Fall 1962,

p. 176-78. SEE ALSO item 1 on this list.

 

Publication 9. Smith, Joseph. The Pearl of Great Price. 56 p. Liverpool, 1851.

Call#: BX8629 – P311

            Selections from Joseph Smith's writings.

 

Publication 10. Trial of the Persons Indicted … for the Murder of Joseph Smith, at the Carthage Jail, on the 27th Day of June, 1844. 32 p. [Warsaw, Ill., 1845].

Call#: BX8611 – T73

            CHM has the 55-page manuscript on which this pamphlet is based. Wording differs. SEE "Collection of manuscripts about Mormons": 1845, May 19-28. For a description of the pamphlet, see Chicago History, v.6, no. 9, Fall 1962, p. 285-86.

 

Publication Publication 11. Van Deusen, Increase. Spiritual Delusions … Mormonism … Spiritual-Wife System …. 64 p. N.Y., 1855.

Call#: q BX8641 – V26

            Folding plate and 8 full-page plates, all in color.

 

Wandell, C. C., SEE Publication 14 listed below.

 

Publication 12. Conyers, Josiah B. A Brief History of the Leading Causes of the Hancock Mob in the Year 1846. St. Louis, 1846. 83 p.+ (84).

Call#: BX8611 C7

 

Publication 13. Davis, George T. M. An Authentic Account of the Massacre of Joseph Smith … and Hyrum Smith, His Brother …. St. Louis, 1844. 47 p.

Call#: BX8695 – S6 029

 

Publication 14. Wandell, C. W. History of the Persecutions!! Endured by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, in America. Sydney, [New South Wales], Albert Mason [1852?].

 

Publication 15. [Young, Brigham]. General Epistle from the Council of the Twelve Apostles, to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Abroad, Dispersed Throughout the Earth, Greeting. 8 p. 8vo. [St. Louis, 1847].

            Young and many of his followers returned from Salt Lake Valley to Missouri and camped in winter quarters, arriving Oct. 31, 1847. Less than a month later Young drew up this account, bidding the dispersed Saints to gather at Missouri by the first of next May to begin their removal to the Great Basin. [CHM acquired this item in Aug. 1968.]

 


*******************

Section F. List of selected original newspapers related to Mormons at Chicago History Museum

            Note: These newspapers are include in microfilm reel 3.

 

Newspapers 1. Deseret Evening News (daily), Salt Lake City, Utah

1868 Oct. 28, supplement only

1870 May 28

Call# for original: Utah Newspapers, Misc.

 

Newspapers 2. Hancock Eagle (weekly) Nauvoo, Illinois

1846 Apr. 3 (with 2 supplements) - 24; May 8-15, 29; June 5, 12 (p. 1-2 only)

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Nauvoo (Ill.) Hancock Eagle-The Wasp; filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 3. Morning Courier (daily), Quincy, Illinois

1845 Sept 22

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Quincy (Ill.); filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 4. Nauvoo Neighbor (weekly), Nauvoo, Illinois

1843 June 7, 28-Dec. 27

1844 Jan. 3-10, 31; Mar. 27; Apr. 10; June 26; July 10; Aug. 7, 28; Oct. 2, 23-30

1845 Jan 1-Feb. 26; Mar. 26; Apr. 23; May 14-June 18; July 2, 16; Aug. 13-Sept. 3, 17-Oct. 29

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Nauvoo, (Ill.) Nauvoo Neighbor; filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 5. Nauvoo New Citizen (weekly) Nauvoo, Illinois

1847 Feb. 24; Mar. 10

Call# for original: bound with Nauvoo Neighbor after Oct. 29, 1845 (see #4 above)

 

Newspapers 6. The Prophet (weekly), New York, N.Y.

1845 Apr. 5

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Warsaw (Ill.) & Misc.; filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 7. Quincy Herald (weekly), Quincy, Illinois

1846 Oct. 16

1849 Sept. 28; Nov. 9

            Other issues of this title also available but not related to Mormons.

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Quincy (Ill.); filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 8. Quincy Whig (weekly) Bartlett; Bartlett & Sullivan, pubs., Quincy, Ill.

1840 Mar. 14

1845 Oct. 1; Dec. 31

1846 Sept 16-23; Nov. 4-11; Dec. 2

            Other issues of this title also available but not related to Mormons.

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Quincy (Ill.); filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 9. Richmond Daily Whig, Richmond, Virginia

1848 Sept. 6, p. 1-2 only

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Warsaw (Ill.) & Misc.; filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 10. Warsaw Message, Warsaw, Illinois

1845 Jan. 15; Feb. 10; May 14, p. 3-4 only; Sept. 17; Oct. 29

1846 June 17; Oct. 20-27; Nov. 14

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Warsaw (Ill.) & Misc.; filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 11. Warsaw Signal (weekly), Warsaw, Illinois

1845 Jan. 15; Feb. 10; May 14, p. 3-4 only; Sept. 17; Oct. 29

1846 June 17; Oct. 20-27; Nov. 14

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Warsaw (Ill.) & Misc.; filed after Illinois newspapers

 

Newspapers 12. The Wasp (weekly, Nauvoo, Illinois

1842 June 25; July 2; Aug. 20; Sept. 5, 21; Oct. 1, 29; Nov.(date?), p. 3-4 only;

Dec. 17-24

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Nauvoo (Ill.) Hancock Eagle-The Wasp; filed after Illinois newspapers

 


*******************

Section G. List of selected original periodicals related to Mormons at Chicago History Museum

            Note: These items are cataloged separately in the Research Center.

 

Periodical 1. Elders' Journal of the Church of Latter Day Saints. Kirtland, Ohio.

v. 1, no. 1 (1837 Oct.)

Call#: QBX8601- E48

 

Note: four numbers were published:

1st 1837 Oct., Kirtland, Ohio

2nd 1837 Nov., Kirtland, Ohio

3rd 1838 July, Far West, Missouri

4th 1838 Aug., Far West, Missouri

 

"The Elders' Journal was…a continuation of the Messenger and Advocate published at Kirtland, Ohio." (From a letter by R.F. Perotti that is laid in CHM's copy of the Elders' Journal. For another continuation of the Kirtland publication, see no. 7 below in this list: Messenger and Advocate …]

 

Periodical 2. The Gospel Reflector, Philadelphia, Pa.

v. 1 (semi-monthly), no. 1-12

1841 Jan. 1-June 15

Call#: BX8601-G69

 

Periodical 3. Journal of History, Lamoni, Iowa

v. 2, no. 1 Jan., 1909

v. 3, no. 1 Jan., 1910

Call#: BX8601-J8

 

Periodical 4. Latter Day Saints' Messenger and Advocate, Kirtland, Ohio

v. 1-3 (monthly), incomplete

Oct. 1834-Sept. 1837

Call#: BX8601 – L34

 

Specifically CHM's holding includes:

v. 1, no. 1-3, 5-12

1834 Oct.-Dec.

1835 Feb.-Sept.

 

v. 2, no. 1-4, 6-10, 12

1835 Oct.-Dec.

1836 Jan.; Mar.-July; Sept.

 

v. 3, no. 1-7, 9-12

1836 Oct.-Dec.

1837 Jan.-Apr.; June-Sept.

 

For continuation of this periodical, see #7 in this list: Messenger and Advocate of the Church of Christ, Pittsburgh, Pa.

 

Periodical 5. Latter Day Saints' Messenger and Advocate, Pittsburgh, Pa.

See: #7 in this list: Messenger and Advocate of the Church of Christ. Pittsburgh, Pa.

 

Periodical 6. The Latter-Day Saints Millennial Star

Manchester, England (through v.2, no. 10-Feb. 1842); thereafter Liverpool, England

v. 1-4, 14, 16

May 1840-Dec. 1854

Call#: BX8601-L35

 

Specifically CHM's holding includes:

v. 1 (monthly), no. 1-12

1840 May-Dec.

1841 Jan.-Apr.

 

v. 2 (monthly), no. 1-12

1841 May-Dec.

1842 Jan.-Apr.

 

v. 3 (monthly), no. 1-12

1842 May-Dec.

1843 Jan.-Apr.

 

v. 4 (monthly), no. 1-12

1843 May-Dec.

1844 Jan.-Apr.

 

v. 14 (no. 1-6, Jan.-Mar., semi-monthly; no. 7-9, April 1, 15, 24; starting no. 10, May, weekly), no. 11-44

1852 Jan. 1-Dec. 26

 

v. 16 (weekly), no. 1-52

1854 Jan. 7-Dec. 30

 

Periodical 7. Messenger and Advocate of the Church of Christ, Pittsburgh, Pa.

v.1 (semi-monthly), no. 1-24

Oct. 15, 1844-Nov. 1, 1845

            (not published Nov. 15, 1844, nor April 1, 1845)

Call#: BX8601 – M4

            Note: Nos. 1-10 (Oct. 15, 1844-April 15, 1845 were titled: Latter Day Saint's Messenger and Advocate.

            This was the organ of the seceding church, which Sidney Rigdon established at Pittsburgh after his expulsion from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on September 8, 1844. Rigdon resuscitated the Messenger and Advocate, which had terminated with the issue of September 1837 at Kirtland.

 

"In resuscitating the Latter Day Saints' Messenger and Advocate: it is the intention of the subscriber to contend for the same doctrine, order of church government and discipline, maintained by that paper when first published in Kirtland, Ohio." (From "Prospectus," Messenger and Advocate … Oct. 15, 1844, p. 16).

 

See also #1 in this list: Elders' Journal…

 

Periodicals 7a. Naked Truths About Mormonism, Oakland, California. Published by Arthur B. Deming.

1888 Jan. v. 1, no. 1. (Two issues were published, but CHM has only the first.)

Call# for original: Mormon Newspapers: Warsaw (Ill.) & Misc.; filed after Illinois newspapers.

[Not microfilmed by CHM, but microfilm is available at other libraries.]

 

Periodical 7b. Olive Branch, or Herald of Peace and Truth to All Saints.

1849 July (v. 2, no. 1)

Call#: BX8601 -- O45

 

Periodical 8. The Relief Society Magazine, Salt Lake city, Utah

v. 2-3 (monthly), incomplete

Jan., 1915-Dec. 1916

Call#: BX8601 – R27

 

CHM's holding includes:

v. 2, no. 1-4 Jan.-Apr. 1915

v. 3, no. 2, 4-12 Feb.; Apr.-Dec. 1916

 

Periodical 9. The Saints' Herald, Plano, Ill., through v. 26, no. 20 (Oct. 15, 1881); thereafter Lamoni, Iowa.

v. 25-32 (v. 25-29, 1878-1882 semi-monthly; v. 30-32, 1883-1885 weekly)

Jan. 1, 1878-Aug. 22, 1885

Call#: QBX8601 – S3

 

Periodical 10. The Return, Davis City, Iowa

v. 1, no. 1

Jan. 1889

Call#: BX8601 – R29

 

Periodical 11. The Seer, Liverpool, England

v. 1 (monthly), 1853

v. 2 (monthly) no. 1-8 Jan.-Aug. 1854

Call#: BX8601 – S4

 

Periodical 12. Times and Seasons. Nauvoo, Illinois

v. 1-6 incomplete & index v. 1-6

Call#: BX8601 – T48

            For a description of Times and Seasons, see "Nauvoo Times and Seasons," by Parry D. Sorensen, in: Journal of the Illinois State Historical Society, v. 55, no. 2, Summer 1962, p. 117-135.

 

CHM's holdings include:

v. 1 (monthly), no. 2-3, 5, 7-ll

1839 Dec.

1840 Jan., Mar., May-Sept.

 

v. 2 (semi-monthly, v. 2-6), no. 1-2, 5-15, 17-20, 22, 24

1840 Nov. 1, 15

1841 Jan. 1-June 1; July 1-Aug. 16 [sic]; Sept. 15; Oct. 15. (The Oct. 15 issue is announced as the end of v. 2)

 

v. 3, no. 1-3, 5-23

1841 (no. 1), dated Nov. 15, is a "Prospectus for the third Volume." (p. 1-2 only); no. 2 is also dated Nov. 15)

 

Nov. 15, two issues: Dec. 1, 15

1842 Jan. 1-Oct. 1

 

v. 4, no. 1-8, 13, 20

1842 Nov. 15-Dec. 15

1843 Jan. 2-Mar. 1; May 15; Sept 1 (incomplete)

 

v. 5, no. 1-24

1844 Jan. 1-Dec. 16(June 15 was not published)

1845 Jan. 1

 

v. 6, no. 1-23

1845 Jan. 15-Aug. 15 (none published Sept. 1-Oct. 15); Nov. 1-Dec. 15

1846 Jan. 1-Feb. 15

 

Periodical 13. The Truth Teller. (complete file)

v. 1, nos. 1-12 (July 1865-June 1865), Bloomington, Ill.

v. 2, nos. 1-(June, Dec. 1868), Independence, Mo.

Call#: BX8601 T7

[CHM acquired Apr. 1969]

            This extremely rare, 16-page periodical was edited and published by Granville Hendrick, the founder of the "Hendrickite" faction, and is the initial Hendrickite publication. In it Hendrick makes claims to be the true successor of Joseph Smith, who he further claims lost his prophetic office before he was murdered in Carthage. A number of revelations to Hendrick are published.

            Apparently to help him document his claims of the fallen nature of Joseph Smith in Nauvoo, Hendrick advertised for the anti-Mormon books by William Harris and John C. Bennett, indicating that "a liberal reward will be given for one copy" (v. 1, no. 9, March 1865, p. 144, a reward of $3.00 is offered). [CHM has copies of the Harris and Bennett publications.]